Decor Musings

Wood Dresser Taken from Drab to Fab

2012-02-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

I have something to admit. I'm not the biggest fan of taking on DIY projects mainly because I can be a bit impatient at times. But I recently met someone who made me rethink this. Vashaya Ramsey, who is releasing a line of false eyelashes in the spring (yes, beauty lovers enjoy home decor, too), managed to transform a drab wood dresser into a fab piece that's now one of the highlights of her Brooklyn bedroom.

She simply sanded the dresser down like you wouldn't believe.

Vashaya then applied a few coats of Mirror Mirror paint from the Martha Stewart Precious Metals collection. Once that had a chance to settle, she finished the job with a coat of polycrylic.

How cute is the final result? I wouldn't mind trying something like this. There really is nothing a quick paint job can't remedy.

My Shecky's Post on Valentine's Day Decor Ideas

2012-02-06T16:48:00.000-08:00

I'm on Sheckys.com today sharing a few quick tips on how to turn your pad into a romantic haven for Valentine's Day. Check it out.

Thursday Fun Day: J. Crew, Kate Spade & A Dose of Deborah Needleman

2012-02-03T08:10:00.000-08:00

I had a fun-filled Thursday beginning with a trip to J. Crew, where I snagged this "Blogs That I Like and Love" notebook, which I've been meaning to pick up. (By the way, I no longer see it listed online, so if you're interested, you'll have to stop by your local J. Crew.)

I also spotted these gorgeous leather trunks. Just one of them would be good enough for me, although I'd be too paranoid to travel with something this fabulous.

Then I headed over to the one and only Kate Spade with my new blogger friend, Nagela of Silver Lining Events. I'm always inspired by the brand's use of colors and patterns. How yummy are the floor and skirt with black-and-white stripes with that splash of electric blue? And that gallery wall of tasteful art and the gold, sparkly wall? So good.

We then trotted over to ABC Carpet & Home to hear Deborah Needleman, former Domino magazine editor in chief and WSJ. Magazine editor, speak at Apartment Therapy's "Design Evening" event. She dished on how she struck up the nerve to pitch Domino's concept to Conde Nast management, her experience producing her latest book, Perfectly Imperfect Home, and the nature of her current job running at WSJ. Magazine. See video.

Deborah Needleman

In a nutshell, my Thursday was just awesome, awesome.

What I'm Loving: Lands' End Home

2012-02-02T08:03:00.000-08:00

Lands' End Home isn't the first place I think of when I'm on the hunt for bedding. That all changed when I recently received their catalog in the mail, featuring its new hotel bedding collection. I especially like the Tailored Hotel Embroidered Rope Duvet Cover in white and navy. It's the kind of bedding that can complement any color scheme, and even better, it's $160. Not bad at all for a duvet.

Ceiling Drama at Brooklyn's Saraghina Italian Restaurant

2012-01-31T08:01:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite restaurants to frequent in Brooklyn is Saraghina, which has the most delicious Margherita pizza. After all of my visits, it was just yesterday that I noticed that chairs hang from the ceiling near the restaurant's entrance. How fun is this decor idea? Just had to post a picture.

On My Shelf: Kennedy Green House

2012-01-27T07:41:00.000-08:00

I'll begin highlighting design books that I think are worthy of reading in my new "On My Shelf" series. I come across so many good titles all the time, and so this is the perfect way to share some of my recommendations.

For the first installment, it's all about Kennedy Green House by Robin Wilson, an interior designer who focuses on eco-friendly living. In Kennedy Green House, Robin reveals the process behind designing an environmentally-friendly home for Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Mary Richardson Kennedy. Can you imagine being given this opportunity and the pressure that comes along with such a project? Nevertheless, Robin and her team rose to the occasion and were able to transform the Kennedys' home into a true model of good green design. The property is even Gold LEED-certified and so every aspect of the design process, from construction to the decorating phase, are infused with eco-friendly principles. If you're at all interested in learning more about what's involved in building a green home, be sure to check out this book. Thanks for sending it my way, Siena Media Group.

Housing Works Thrift Shop Haul

2012-01-26T04:19:00.000-08:00

If you follow Decor Musings, you know how much I treasure old things. I love a good thrift shop and on Sunday, I trekked over to Housing Works on Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights with a new blogger friend, Nagela of Silver Lining Events, to see what goodies I could snatch up. Being the experienced thrift shopper that I am, you know I didn't leave the store empty-handed.

I left with three adorable lamps (eventhough I have nowhere to put them), a brass shelf, two pieces of floral art and even a dress. In other words, I scored big. It was tons of fun to say the least. And the best part is that proceeds from every sale are directed to assist people who are living with HIV/AIDS. So worthwhile.

The two lamps with the floral details were $20 each.

My favorite find was $15.

This picture doesn't show the full beauty of this lamp base but you get the idea. I snagged it for just $20 and I couldn't believe how heavy it was to carry.

Nagela and I each took home two of these. They were only $2 each.

Winter Antiques Show Preview

2012-01-23T04:35:00.000-08:00

I attended a preview of the Winter Antiques Show at the Park Avenue Armory in NYC last week and there were so many pieces that left me inspired. Antiques are a great way to easily add character to a home and these beauties especially captured my attention. On Thursday, I'll also be making my way to the Young Collectors Night at the Winter Antiques Show to benefit East Side House Settlement. I'm a little too excited that I'll get a second look at all of these pieces and more.

The color and weathered look of this armoire were calling my name.

Starting a collection of your favorite items, even a ton of shovels, is a fun way to show off your personality.

I always go crazy for brass mirrors. They make a space so much more glam.

This would be perfect for holding knick-knacks, which we all have.

Again, I was drawn to the brass mirrors here.

There is only one word to describe this arrangement: sweet. And the bowl of apples did it for me.

If I had to buy a sconce, this is what it would look like.

Inside the World of Interior Designer Martyn Lawrence-Bullard

2012-01-18T05:39:00.000-08:00

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Photo: Tim Street-Porter

When I learned that I'd have the chance to interview interior designer Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, I couldn't contain my excitement. He's decorated the homes of a slew of celebrities, including Cher, Elton John and Ellen Pompeo, and appeared on Bravo's Million Dollar Decorators, which will return for season two. Here, the interior designer, who was on Architectural Digest's 2012 AD100 list highlighting the best in architecture and interior design, shares about his approach to decorating, working with celebrity clients and his latest projects.

Decor Musings: How would you describe your decorating style?

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard: I have lots of styles. I decorate for my clients, not for me, so my inspiration comes purely from their energy. For instance, Elton John really knows what he wants and has worked with some extraordinary decorators over the years. He had a vision of how he likes to live and it was my job to take that vision and make it into a reality for him. With Cher, she's always liked themed interiors. For her West Hollywood townhouse, we did an Indian fantasy and for the beach house, we went with a Moroccan villa vibe. Her whole thing was living out a fantasy in design.

Martyn infused an Indian vibe into Cher's two-floor West Hollywood home. Photo: Tim Street-Porter

DM: Where do you find your inspiration?

MLB: Travel really is the best inspiration a designer can ever have because not only does it feed your soul, it feeds your creative energy. It provides the juices that you drink upon to find new and interesting ways of doing things.

DM: What are some of your favorite places to visit?

MLB: I just came back from Istanbul -- it's one of my favorite spots. In Morocco, I love Marrakesh and Tangier. Rome is also always so inspiring for me. I enjoy seeing the great, classic architecture there.

DM: For people on a budget looking to spruce up their places, what’s one decorating tip you would share with them?

MLB: Make sure your sofa is upholstered in a plain fabric, so you can create different looks with fun, decorative pillows. You can go to Crate & Barrel or Pottery Barn and buy fantastic pillows for about $20 that will completely rejuvenate your interior. Pillows are a great way to add pattern, freshen the space and delineate seasons.

For actress Ellen Pompeo's home, Martyn went for both comfort and style. Photo: Tim Street-Porter

DM: Can you share one of your favorite places to shop for clients?

MLB: ABC Carpet & Home in New York always has fresh things. I love that it has an eclectic, ethinic vibe mixed with fun, modern products. There’s a little bit of something for everyone. It doesn’t matter what I’m looking for, I seem to be able to find it there.

DM: Season two of Million Dollar Decorators is to come. How was filming the first season?

MLB: It’s been a blast and we’re thrilled to be doing season two. It was the most fun I could have with my clothes on (laughs). It has completely changed the course of my business. I’ve been called to work on major hotels and I’m even a spokesperson for Jaguar now. All of these amazing collaborations have come directly from the show, which has been extraordinary.

DM: What’s one takeaway you want readers to go away with from your book, Live, Love, Decorate?

MLB: Never be scared when decorating and truly follow your heart. Decorating is all about being brave. If you like it, it doesn’t matter what anybody else thinks because at the end of the day, you’re the person who has to live with it. If you think it’s beautiful, then it is beautiful. That is the whole concept of the book. It’s about living life, loving what you do and decorating with that.

DM: What projects do you have coming up?

MLB: In addition to season two of Million Dollar Decorators, I have a separate show starting in England. My fabric line with Schumacher is expanding, I have wallpaper and outdoor fabric lines launching in a few weeks, and will also be releasing new rugs with The Rug Company. I also have a line in the works with Ann Sacks. There is major product happening at every level of the marketplace.

DM: How do you feel about social media?

MLB: I love Twitter because it’s instant. As things are happening, you can let the world know and receive immediate feedback. I love Facebook as well because if you get a great message from someone, you can easily find out a bit more about the person.

Social media is the way forward, especially for someone like myself who really wants to work hands-on with people and understand what they want. It's a way to learn about new trends and keep my fingers on the pulse. I enjoy the interaction.

Winter Antiques Show Young Collectors Night in NYC

2012-01-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

The Young Collectors Night at the Winter Antiques Show is on Thursday, January 26, and I'm so excited that I'll be attending this year. The event, which will benefit East Side House Settlement, is being held at the Park Avenue Armory in NYC and there will be all kinds of fabulous antiques on-hand for guests' enjoyment. New York magazine, Benjamin Moore and Elie Tahari are the sponsors and well-known interior designers (think Nate Berkus, Jonathan Adler, Celerie Kemble and Thom Filicia) are expected to be in attendance. Tickets are $175 and I'm sure it's going to be a good time. Here's more info.

I'm Giving Away 10 Design Books!!

2012-01-06T06:51:00.000-08:00

Guest what? I'm clearing out my bookshelves, which are loaded with an overwhelming number of interior design coffee-table books, and so I'm giving one lucky reader the chance to snag the 10 titles listed below. Yes, 10. Please note that of course I've flipped through the books very gently, but I promise, promise, promise that they're all just like new.

To enter this giveaway, leave a comment here that briefly explains one decorating tip you've learned from reading an interior design book and also follow me on Twitter via @decormusings (if you're not already doing so).

The deadline to enter is noon ET on Friday, Jan. 13. By the way, you must live in the good old U.S. of A. Good luck! I can't wait to pick a winner.

The 10 Books I'm Giving Away:

Chris Madden The Soul of a House

Country Homes by Jean Demachy

Flowers Chic & Cheap by Carlos Mota

French Country Style at Home by Sébastien Siraudeau

Home Magazine Best Little Houses

Metropolitan Home Renovate

Perfect Porches by Paula S. Wallace

The Art of the Interior by Richard Gillette

The Well-Dressed Home by Annette Tatum

The World of Madeleine Castaing by Emily Evans Eerdmans

Photo: Lonny

Decorating Tips from a Prop Stylist

2012-01-04T15:04:00.000-08:00

Sierra Baskind, prop stylist

When I attended the Pip & Estella pop-up shop in Brooklyn a few months ago, I happened to meet a young lady by the name of Sierra Baskind who is an up-and-coming prop stylist. After speaking with her for a bit, I learned that she worked on a photo shoot for Rue magazine, which I love, so I had to set up some time to chat with her about her decorating tips. We recently had a fun conversation and here are some takeaways that you can try on your own at home, and be sure to check out her blog.

* Decorating should be functional but also needs to reflect your style.

* Never leave walls bare. Start with a large painting to anchor the room and take it from there. Gallery walls can work.

* Try reframing art. Sierra likes silver frames coupled with white mats or black frames with gray mats.

* Consider flea markets or stores like Target when decorating. You can always put in a little work to transform a piece to make it your own.

* Always bring a memento or two home from your travels.

* For those on a budget, never compromise on a good bed. It's the one place where you'll spend a lot of time so it needs to be perfect.

* Think about how you can repurpose items. For instance, when your candle has run its course, try using it to hold your makeup brushes.

* Plants are a great way to make a room more lively and add a positive feeling to a room.

4 Easy Ways to Make Guests Feel Right at Home

2011-12-21T09:17:00.000-08:00

With the holidays can often come house guests, which means you need to be prepared to ensure their stay with you is as comfortable as possible. You'd be surprised how little things can show guests that you've taken the time to think about their needs and understand what it means to entertain. (By the way, Vogue's Book of Etiquette has some great tips on this topic.) Here's what I suggest you consider for making guests feel at home.

Plush, white towels. There's something about cozy, white towels that give off a luxurious vibe and make people feel special. Stack a few in the bathroom for a spa-like feel. Why should they just be reserved for hotel stays?

Candles. Everyone feels more relaxed when a candle's burning. Whether you have a few lit during dinner or in the bathroom when guests arrive, it's an easy way to help guests unwind. If you prefer scented candles, my favorite is Votivo's Island Grapefruit.

One good robe. I love nothing more during the winter months than a soft robe, especially when I'm hopping out of the shower or having breakfast. Consider having a robe or two handy for guests when they're lounging around your place. I'm sure they'll thank you for it.

Liquid hand soap. One of my top pet peeves is using someone's bathroom and being left to find that in lieu of a simple bottle of liquid hand soap, I'm being forced to use bar soap. Being the germaphobe that I am, the idea of using a soap bar after a trillion people isn't appealing to me at all. I love the liquid olive soaps from Savon de Marseille. They're lightly scented and extremely gentle on your skin. You can't go wrong with the lavender version.

Happy entertaining!

Photo: PepperDesignBlog.com

What I'm Loving

2011-12-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

There's nothing I love more than a warm and cozy throw. And when it's as stylish as this chevron one from Tory Burch, how could you resist? The blanket comes in both navy and ivory and chocolate brown and ivory. It'll cost you $295, by the way.

And how about coupling it with this chevron lamp ($395) from Jill Rosenwald? It was featured in ELLE Decor earlier this year.

OpenSky Giveaway: Ikat Pillows

2011-12-10T06:31:00.000-08:00

OpenSky is giving one lucky Decor Musings fan a chance to win a pair of these cute, cute, cute fuschia ikat pillow covers from Martyn Lawrence-Bullard. For an opportunity to win, leave a comment here before noon ET on Wednesday, Dec. 14, about how you'd decorate your space with these beauties. Good luck!

The Dish on Gallery Walls

2011-12-04T16:08:00.000-08:00

The idea of creating a gallery wall--a collage of art--always intimidated me for some reason. For one, I'm the worst at hanging just about anything. Couple that with my ever-growing collection of art and picture frames from flea market escapades, and I was always left feeling like I wouldn't know where to begin and it would turn out to be one big mess. Well, I took a leap of faith and happened upon a dose of motivation somehow (likely from having my living room painted in a dark, dark purple), and decided it was finally the time to get it done.

There are all kinds of theories about how gallery walls should be created, from the orderly version to my preference of mixing and matching the size and style of picture frames. For my wall, I started the process by hanging several floral paintings I had around my apartment, postcards and an African mask. I even ended up hanging a wooden cross snagged from a vacation to Puerto Rico, a straw hat purchased at Target one summer and a hand-written happy birthday note I received and had framed a few years ago. I still have a little more work to do with it, so it will come together eventually.

To be honest, the wall is somewhat chaotic, but I absolutely love it. Every item, big or small, means something to me, and that's all that matters, right?

Photos: Tori Mellot's apartment as featured in Domino

All I Want for Christmas: Stools from Tucker Robbins

2011-12-04T12:40:00.000-08:00

How fabulous are these "Porcelain Mortar" stools from Tucker Robbins? I just painted my living room in a deep purple and these beauties would go perfectly with my new color scheme. Any takers on buying me these for Christmas? Ha.

I also love Tucker's "Lattice" stools. Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous.

First OpenSky Purchase: Kobo Candle

2011-12-03T06:18:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've come across a retail website with a creative concept capable of capturing my interest to the point where I have to visit it multiple times a week. So when I heard about OpenSky, which allows you to take part in exclusive sales on food, health, fashion and design items curated by your favorite celebrities and well-known experts, I knew I had to investigate. And I have to say, it's a must-visit in my view.

Naturally, my favorite section of OpenSky is design and since my first visit to the site, I've been back time and time again only to find home products endorsed by experts like Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, Michele Varian, Preston Bailey and more. I've spotted some cute cashmere throws, newly released coffee-table books (including Martyn's Live, Love, and Decorate), reclaimed wood picture frames, and pretty much any other kind of accessory one might need to jazz up a home.

OpenSky was kind enough to invite me to do a little shopping of my own, and I snagged a Kobo candle from Bradley Bayou in the Zapote scent, which is a lovely combination of passion fruit, echinacea and strawberry. It smells delicious and isn't overbearing. I've been burning it since the day it arrived in the mail.

If you haven't done so, take a look at OpenSky. I'm sure you'll find some home goodies worth buying.

Photo: via Apartment 48

Bathroom Decor: Style vs. Practicality

2011-11-28T17:40:00.000-08:00

Bathroom designer Helen Davies of U.K.-based Better Bathrooms was kind enough to write up a guest post for me on bathroom decorating. Read on, enjoy, and be sure to follow her blog, too.

When decorating a bathroom, always aim to choose a style that you love – but do take care with the details, and balance your style aspirations against practical considerations.

In the world of interiors, trends can change quickly. The bathroom cabinets you see in today’s glossy interior design magazines might be on top of tomorrow’s scrap heap. So while magazines, blogs and TV shows are great sources of inspiration, decorate to suit your needs and home rather than to emulate a style you’ve seen elsewhere. Trends will still move on – but if you’ve settled on a look you genuinely love, you’ll be happy to retain it regardless.

When deciding on a bathroom decorating plan, don’t forget that the space will not be viewed as a single room ‘set,’ but in context with the rest of your home. For this reason, it's important to choose a style that complements the rest of your home. Carry themes and colors throughout the home to maintain a sense of continuity.

No matter what its style, your bathroom is a space that should be designed to be used. If you’re remodeling, adopt bathroom furniture and a sanitaryware layout that works. On the other hand, if you’re simply redecorating, think carefully about the materials you use to ensure that your bathroom decor is durable.

Make sure you incorporate sufficient user space into your bathroom layout. There is no point in having beautiful, ergonomically-designed and robust bathroom furniture, sanitaryware and brassware, if it’s all so squashed into your bathing space that there’s barely room for you to get in there with it. Industry experts’ recommendations vary, as does the standard bathroom, but you should aim to allow at least 60cm clearance in front of a sink and toilet, and 70cm alongside a bath.

And your choice of materials is equally important. Think about the aftercare requirements of your bathroom fixtures and fittings before you commit to buy them and ask yourself if you have the time needed to devote to the upkeep of a high-maintenance bathroom. Laminate bathroom furniture, for example, will require less daily, weekly or monthly care after installation than wooden bathroom furniture.

Different wall and floor coverings will have their own care requirements, too: natural stone tiles need special cleaning and sealant while their porcelain or ceramic equivalents simply need a regular wipe down. Love wallpaper, by all means – but try to fall in love with washable vinyl wallpaper if you plan to use it in the bathroom. And perhaps you could consider adding a backsplash made of tiles especially in wet areas, where wallpaper is not the most suitable material for the job.

Photo: West Elm

Paint Color Drama

2011-11-15T17:20:00.000-08:00

For the longest while, I've been mulling over the perfect paint color for my living room. Out of pure laziness, it's now a plain off-white hue and I've been eager to give the room some more life with a statement-making option. I'm now leaning towards a deep purple, which would certainly complement all the vintage finds and gold accessories I've accumulated over the past few years, but I'm still a little reluctant for some reason.

As a way to find some comfort in my final decision on a paint color, I'm going to take some time to reference a few design magazines. They always open up my mind to new ways of looking at color and figuring out why certain ones work so well together. Of course, my stash of Domino back issues will come into play here.

Then I need to spend a little more time thinking about the vibe I want the living room to give off, considering it's my go-to spot for lounging, working on my computer (like I am now typing this post) and eating dinner. Most importantly, though, I need to consider that my living room barely gets any natural light (hate this so much) and it's not a huge space so this all makes my decision that much more difficult. Wish me luck!

Photo: homedit.com

A Dose of Domino with Deborah Needleman's New Book

2011-10-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

I've voiced my disappointment over domino's folding way too many times on this blog (read my last post), so when I learned months ago that the magazine's then-editor in chief, Deborah Needleman, who now heads up WSJ. Magazine, was releasing a decorating book, I couldn't contain my excitement. Well, the moment is finally here and Deborah's book, The Perfectly Imperfect Home, will be in stores on November 1.

I was lucky enough to snag a preview copy and let me tell you it's MAJOR (yes, caps are needed here). It's been a while since I've been so fully satisfied with a design book. The concept behind the book is simply that a home works best and is most attractive when it contains elements that speak to the people who reside in it. It's meant to be lived in, and should always be an honest display of its owner's personality. I couldn't agree more.

Deborah covers all the basics in the book (think choosing the right lighting and seating), and delves into some of my favorite aspects of decorating like how to display collections, art and photos, working with accessories from throws to log baskets, and simple ways to make a home feel as cozy and comfortable as possible.

There's no doubt that this book will have a permanent spot on my bookshelf. It really is that good.

Mirrors, Mirrors on the Wall

2011-10-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

Mirrors are one of those items that can sometimes be overlooked when decorating a home and that shouldn't be the case. They're not only functional--they can open up small spaces, especially when we're talking about those with very little natural light.

One of the best deals I snagged to-date was on a standing mirror with a wood frame that I purchased as a teenager. Even now, there isn't a day that goes by without me at least taking a glance in it before rushing out the house for work. It's just that useful, even after all these years. So whether it's a full-length mirror for your closet area (I've had my eye on this Ikea number) or a vintage one mounted on the wall over a living room sofa, think about where you might be able to use one. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Photo: The Newlywed Diaries

Televisions: For the Bedroom or Not?

2011-10-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

There have been so many theories on whether or not a television is fit for a bedroom and I doubt I'll ever change my stance that this is the one room in your house where it just doesn't belong. Nothing about a TV screams relaxation, which is the sole purpose of your bedroom, right? And if you're like me, you can never just watch TV for just a few minutes. You kind of get sucked into it, and before you know it, you've watched how many shows, wasted valuable time and have been cheated out of your much-needed rest.

I personally opt for a TV only in my living room and lately, I've been getting frustrated with the look of it as silly as that sounds. It just seems to eat up any space. I'm trying to figure out if there's a more attractive way to keep it on display, whether it's as simple as hiding it behind a cute armoire or just mounting it to a wall in a way that makes sense for my space. I'll figure it out somehow.

Photo: Lonny

Lessons in Blogging

2011-10-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

Between a string of annoying laptop issues and just life getting in the way, it's been a little while since I've blogged here. Instead of jumping right back into my decorating musings, I thought it would be fun to share some lessons I've learned since I started blogging. Here goes.

Passion is everything. I started my blog simply because I wanted to share my personal take on home decor as an ordinary consumer--just like many of you. Reading magazines and the like full of well-styled photos of expensive homes and tips from the same crew of design experts seemed to be out of reach and quite frankly became frustrating. So I decided to take matters into my own hands to offer my thoughts on decorating, which is a topic I enjoy following personally. It really is a passion.

Be yourself. Although I follow all of the popular design blogs (coco + kelley and Apartment Therapy are just a few of my favorites), I still stay in my lane. And by staying in my lane I mean that I write exactly what I want to write about even if it means that at times it's not the most popular topic or trend to cover. I follow my gut and am always honest in all that I write.

Karma is no joke. You've all heard the line, "If you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all." I'm a firm believer in this. If there's a home product or interior designer's approach, for instance, that I dislike, I won't ever spend my time here writing lengthy posts about why they're all wrong. I just won't write about them. From the beginning, I've always intended for this to be a positive outlet and it'll continue on that path because there's no doubt that negative energy breeds negativity in one way or another. And that's one thing I don't want anywhere near me.

Have some fun. Blogging, even for your personal enjoyment, can be stressful sometimes but I've found some ways to keep it exciting. I've attended my share of design industry events and even co-hosted an intimate mixer for bloggers (it was called "Bloggers' Delight") just to keep the fun going. Find ways to connect with others who are passionate about what you cover and I'm sure you'll find it rewarding.

Happy blogging!

Photo: Freshome.com

New Favorite Shop: Les Toiles Du Soleil

2011-09-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore French culture and visiting Les Toiles Du Soleil in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood this past weekend reminded me of this all over again. Les Toiles Du Soleil has a rich history dating back to more than 150 years ago in Saint Laurent de Cerdans, France, and was known as the go-to place for authentic espadrilles back then.

Today, the NYC shop that opened in 2008 has the most colorful fabrics in stripes of all widths available for purchase by the yard, along with throw pillows, aprons, napkins, notebooks, magazine holders and more. I honestly couldn't get enough of this charming little store and would have spent more time there if I wasn't in a hurry. What made my experience at Les Toiles Du Soleil even more lovely was the personable owner who gladly chatted me up while I was there. I just love when that happens. Be sure to pay a visit, and do so soon, soon, soon!

Holly Becker's New York City "Decorate" Book Event

2011-09-02T05:56:00.000-07:00

If you're a fan of Holly Becker's popular design blog, Decor8, hopefully you've had a chance to snag her new Decorate book that reveals all the secrets from insiders (think from Kelly Wearstler to Jonathan Adler) on creating the space of your dreams. On Tuesday evening, I headed over to Anthropologie in NYC for a book signing event with Holly and a session in which she shared her process on creating mood boards, an outlet she believes is useful for drumming up inspiration for any home décor project.

Mood boards can be a compilation of pages from magazines or catalogs, pieces of fabric, postcards, photographs, paint swatches or just about anything that sparks your creativity when it comes to decorating. And it's not necessary for all the images to work together because mood boards really are a way to express your decorating sense and creativity. Another point Holly made was that there are many different ways to produce a mood board. You can design one in Photoshop, pull together items in a file folder or journal, or simply follow the regular route of posting your materials on a bulletin board. Whatever way you choose, just be sure to have fun with it.

5 Decorating Lessons Learned from Just 1 Visit to Lillian August

2011-08-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

I always enjoy checking out a home furnishings store that stocks items across a wide array of decorating styles. Let's face it. There are very few people who stick to one style and one style alone. I, for one, love a unique vintage find (Brooklyn Flea is like my second home), but I also have absolutely no problem snagging a coffee table from a chain like West Elm or Crate & Barrel. So when I was invited on a tour of the spacious Lillian August showroom in Manhattan and discovered that it stocks furniture and accessories for just about everyone, I really felt like I hit the jackpot. (Oh and by the way, yes, I'm ashamed that I'd never been to Lillian August).

Walking around the Lillian August space, I came to realize that there were some key decorating lessons unfolding right before my eyes. Follow along...

Decorating "Rules" Can Be Ignored...

We've all heard it could be cliche to have two identical lamps so close together, but for some reason, it works here. The lamps add a good sense of balance to the console table and the white shades coupled with the beige sofa work to give the whole area a light feeling. This set-up also confirmed that sofas have to be comfy. It's non-negotiable in my book. You likely spend most of your time at home using your sofa, so why in the world would you have it any other way?

Color Does Wonders for an Office...

I've mentioned this before and I'll say it again. An office should boast bright, bold colors like those found on this red lacquer desk and lime green lamp and side table. Your office is most likely the one space in your home that you rely on to boost your creativity, so anything you can do to make it as lively as possible goes a long way and can even make you more productive.

Find One Special Piece of Furniture...

If I was lucky enough to have the option to take home one piece of furniture from Lillian August, this cabinet, which was made in India, would've been my pick. Every home should have that one standout piece of furniture or accessory that just makes people stop and take notice whenever they visit. But more importantly, the item should hold special meaning for you in some way.

Shelves Are Meant to Be Styled...

Instead of piling your bookshelves with loads and loads of books, always try to weave in fun accessories to give them more character. The vintage trunks, glass bottles and pottery shown here make for an interesting display.

Embrace Your Passion...

Don't be scared to incorporate elements of your personal passions or profession into your home. I have no interest in astronomy whatsoever, but I am, however, a huge lover of all things media-related. So throughout my apartment, you'll find anything from vintage magazines to the very first article I wrote for my college newspaper propped up on my desk in a nice frame.

Just remember that your home should reflect your world and decorating should always be a breeze. Happy decorating!

Traditional Home Magazine's Hamptons Showhouse

2011-08-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

Every year, Traditional Home sponsors the Hamptons Designer Showhouse. Lillian August, Welhil Interiors and Eddie Lee are among those chosen to decorate this year's home in Bridgehampton. Check out a few pics. The house is open through Sunday, September 4.

Come Intern With Me Why Don’t You…

2011-08-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

Are you the person family and friends turn to for advice on rearranging their furniture or finding the perfect sofa? Do you enjoy meeting new people and networking? Is there hardly anything you love more than writing and editing? If you’ve answered yes to all of these questions, I need your help with a project that’s very, very dear to me—this home decorating blog, Decor Musings.

I’m looking for a stellar intern to:

- contribute blog posts, including home product reviews and Q&As with some of the movers and shakers of the design world

- assist with fact-checking blog posts and tracking down drool-worthy photos that’ll make anyone want to redecorate their space in a heartbeat

- cover interior design industry events (so yes, you can’t be afraid of putting people on the spot)

- assist with promotion of the blog via Twitter and Facebook

Note that this is an unpaid position, but you’d garner loads of reporting experience and make new connections. Plus, I promise I’m a joy to work with and the hours are beyond flexible. You must live in the NYC area.

If you’re interested, shoot an e-mail over to info@decormusings.com with your resume, at least two interior design-related writing samples, and a brief explanation of why you’re the only one for the gig. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Photo: Lonny

A Little Flea Market Shopping in Barcelona & Paris

2011-08-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

I recently enjoyed a week-long vacation in Barcelona and Paris and my trip wouldn't have been the same without some good flea market shopping. Check out what I loved.

At the famous Les Puces in Paris....

Spotted in Barcelona at a flea market near the Grand Marina Hotel (couldn't have picked a better place to stay, byt the way)

Tamara Magel's New York City Design Shop is One to Watch

2011-07-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was invited on a tour of Tamara Magel's home design shop in New York City's Soho area and couldn't have been more thrilled. She's so fun and down to earth and we had a lovely time chatting about so many things, including how to find your calling in life, her design philosophy and even summer decorating (she's a fan of simple furniture coupled with rugs and pillows in bold colors).

Tamara started her career in finance, but always had a passion for interior design, which she says was fueled by the many antique shopping trips she took with her mother as a child. She worked as an interior designer for 10 years and finally opened her shop in January. Tamara draws inspiration from the many colors and patterns that defined the 60s and has a special affinity for fabrics hailing from Morocco and India, which are my personal favorites as well.

Her shop contains the perfect mix of European and modern home accessories and furniture, and she's slated to release a line of textiles in the fall. If you're ever in the area, I highly suggest you pay a visit. You won't be disappointed.

Eye Candy from Paris

2011-07-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, I traveled to Paris for the second time and stumbled upon the cutest cafe, where I had everything from beignets to pizza. Words can't express how delicious the food was there, and the decor made it that much more of a treat. Here are a few pics I snapped:

What I Learned from My First Decorating Client Meeting

2011-07-08T04:38:00.000-07:00

I landed my very first decorating client a few weeks ago. Of course, I couldn't have been happier to hear the news, but at the same time, I was somewhat (OK more than somewhat) nervous because this is all new territory for me. It made me think of a few pointers, which may be helpful for some of you in the same position:

1. Be prepared. Before meeting with your client, try reading up on his or her background to get a sense of their personality and lifestyle. You should've already spoken about the project at hand before meeting face to face, so take some time to think about different decorating themes the person may like and even some of the sources you may use for shopping. It's always a good idea to brainstorm beforehand to maintain your creativity level.

2. Professionalism goes a long way. The hardest part was scoring the meeting, but the work doesn't stop there. You need to deliver. By deliver I mean being punctual (so very important), well dressed and showing up to your appointment with a ton of ideas for possible design schemes that may work for the client. You also need to be able to clearly convey your overall approach to decorating, which you should've even already discussed prior to this meeting. It's the reason why you were hired in the first place.

3. Ask all the right questions. This is the time to find out absolutely everything you need to know about this person's lifestyle: what they like and don't like about their current set-up, the kind of pets they have, how they use the space on a daily basis, a description of their decorating style, the budget you'll be working with, etc.

4. Listen, listen, listen. It's crucial to listen closely while your client is explaining their needs. The worst thing would be to misinterpret what was said, so to help avoid any mistakes, consider taking notes during the conversation as a backup.

5. Set clear expectations. Be clear on everything from money matters to the decorating schedule. The key is keeping the line of communication wide open so that all involved aren't faced with any big surprises during the decorating process that could prevent it from running smoothly.

Photo: The Glamourai

Inside Bungalow 5's Showroom Featuring AphroChic

2011-06-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Photo: Liz Epp

Step into the Bungalow 5 showroom in Manhattan and you'll feel like running home to swap your belongings for items in their collection of fun, modern pieces. Although Bungalow 5's products are mainly available to the trade, you can find a selection of items at retail outlets around the country, including Layla Grace.

The company recently invited Jeanine Hays of AphroChic to showcase items from her line in their space, and I had the pleasure of checking them out at the showroom. I especially fell for her throw pillows (see one I love below) and tablecloth runners. I find Jeanine's line to be very upbeat, as it features bold prints in colors that pop, and they have a bohemian feel to them. By no means are they for people who don't like making a style statement. How fun could that be, right?

AphroChic's "Vibe Pillow" in Saffron and Pink

Inside InteriorConnector: A Source for High-End Home Furnishings

2011-06-27T15:02:00.000-07:00

Are you the kind of person who lives for discovering that one special item that makes your home unique? If so, you'll love InteriorConnector, a website that features high-end home furnishings from independent designers, boutiques and artisans. I recently caught up with InteriorConnector's founder, Beth Neuhaus, to learn about her inspiration for launching the site and her passion for the world of home design.

Decor Musings: How did you come to launch InteriorConnector?
Beth Neuhaus: I practiced law for more than 20 years, but always had a passion for home design. I worked with a lot of wonderful interior designers over the years on my personal home projects, and as the Internet became more and more popular, I began handling my own sourcing. At the same time, as a corporate lawyer, I helped early-stage companies raise capital and I soon came to recognize that I wanted to start my own business.

DM: What does InteriorConnector offer?
BN: InteriorConnector is a virtual storefront for independent home design sources, whether it’s Carolina George or Palumbo/Anderssen Modern. I’m targeting consumers who are design devotees who feel empowered by discovering home products on their own.

DM: Your site has a great mix of commerce and editorial content, which feels very balanced.
BN: Yes, it’s important because you can have all of these wonderful products for sale, but without the editorial content, there’s no way to put them into context. We have a section called “Shop Stop,” where we tell the story of each of our vendors. We also cover trends in the home category. We've done stories on everything from animal prints to how to decorate a space around a specific piece of art. Then there's “Décor Basics,” where we feature interviews with designers and tastemakers in the luxury lifestyle space.

DM: How do you decide on what products to feature on the site?
BN: We look for high-end home furnishings that have a distinct look. They can range from any period of styles.

DM: What kinds of design trends are you now seeing?
BN: People are becoming more and more empowered every day from the Internet and all of the home design-focused television shows out now. They are learning that you don’t have to be rich and famous to be exposed to great design. Great design has become more accessible to people. You can design your home and have one really fabulous piece of art that makes the space special, for instance. That's the goal of InteriorConnector. We want to help people find these special pieces for their home.

DM: What’s next for InteriorConnector?
BN: Our initial launch was in the New York metro area. We’ll be launching in Miami soon and Atlanta will follow suit. We're also looking forward to having an international presence as well because our audience includes people from all over the world.

How Couples Can Solve Their Decorating Dilemmas

2011-06-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

Amy Larocca and husband Will Frears at home. Photo: Max Kim-Bee

Decorating a home both you and your spouse can fully enjoy is no easy feat. It takes work—and compromise—but you can get it done with little to no stress. Follow these easy tips to get started.

Be honest. The first step in decorating your home together is to be very clear about what you both like and dislike. Do you go for more of an Anthropologie vibe, and your spouse is partial to BoConcept? Are there certain colors, fabrics or furniture either of you absolutely need to see in your home? Is there one piece of art that holds special meaning for you, and so you must have a space for it in the living room? This will all save you time when shopping around.

Compromising is key. Of course, it's not possible to witness every single piece of your decorating plan come to fruition and that's completely fine. Your partner may not be too crazy about your ever-growing collection of vintage picture frames or the hand-me-down sofa from your great aunt (that's clearly run its course). Whatever it is, know the battles worth fighting for, and try to reach a solution you both can live with.

Shop, shop, shop around. Nothing beats visiting furniture stores or flea markets together to see how you both respond to certain items. It's one of the best ways to gain a better understanding of each of your decorating tastes and even pinpoint how much you're both willing to spend on different items.

Designate duties. In some instances, it might be beneficial to give one person complete control over decorating particular areas of the home. Maybe the person who will be using the kitchen the most should decorate it, right? The same for the entertainment room and so on. You should consult with each other throughout the decorating process, of course, but the ultimate decision can be left up to the person in charge.

Happy decorating!

Want to Mingle with Lifestyle Bloggers?

2011-06-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

Calling all lifestyle bloggers! Tonight, Thursday, June 16, from 7 to 9 p.m., I'll be hosting a mixer in Brooklyn, NY, with Nichelle Stephens of Cupcakes Take the Cake for lifestyle bloggers in the areas of fashion, beauty, food, and home decor/design. The event will be held at Linger Cafe. RSVP here. It'll be a good time. Promise.

One Kings Lane Sale with Designers Ann Getty and Thomas Britt

2011-06-11T07:37:00.000-07:00

I raved about One Kings Lane recently and was delighted to learn that interior designers Ann Getty and Thomas Britt are hosting a sale on the website until Tuesday. The designers have pulled together a great lineup of unique items--furniture, accessories and vintage pieces--from their personal collections just in time for your Father's Day gift shopping. So get a taste of a designer's life and stop by the sale at One Kings Lane. Happy shopping!

Selections from Thomas Britt:

Selections from Ann Getty:

Interior Designer Elaine Griffin Dishes on the Art of Decorating

2011-06-05T18:33:00.000-07:00

Elaine Griffin created vignettes for HomeGoods at this year's Design on a Dime event. Photo: Joe Standart

Several years ago during my time assisting with the public relations efforts for Metropolitan Home, I was working at the publication's signature "Design 100" event, which highlighted its picks for 100 of the best modern home products of the year. I was just getting my feet wet in the world of magazine public relations, and this event was a big deal for the brand. As I was scrambling to get my job done that day, a lovely lady stopped me in my tracks to introduce herself and offer a few kind words. This stuck with me ever since, and I remember thinking how much I admired her character. This lovely lady is none other than Elaine Griffin, the accomplished New York interior designer and author of Design Rules: The Insider's Guide to Becoming Your Own Decorator.

I had the chance to speak with Elaine about everything from her summer decorating tips to how aspiring interior designers can go about fulfilling their dreams. Enjoy the interview.

Decor Musings: What’s your decorating philosophy?
Elaine Griffin: The one rule I will never break is rooms should look like the people who live in them. How you decorate your home is an intimate representation of who you are. It is the most personal, most private space there is, so I am stunned when people don’t make an effort to fix their place up.

DM: What's one goal you try to accomplish with all the clients who come your way?
EG: I am a native of the South, so I bring that Southern hospitality to all of my clients. Whether they entertain or not, they will be well equipped to do so when I leave their home. I make sure even a hermit in a studio apartment can throw a successful dinner party for four.

For this year's Design on a Dime event, Elaine revealed her take on an urban garden. Photo: Joe Standart

DM: What's the key to entertaining?
EG: So much about entertaining is really making sure your guests have everything within reach. Billy Baldwin put it best when he said that the best rooms have something to put upon, sit upon and gaze upon. John Fowler said that true luxury is really about everything being in its proper place. There’s a table within reach for a drink or a book. There’s a box of Kleenex, wherever you might happen to need one, in a pretty container. There’s sufficient light wherever you might need it. It’s all about covering the practical bases with style.

DM: As for summer decorating, what do you suggest?
EG: You want to be able to tell what season it is outside, inside your home. Summer really is all about lighter colors, lighter fabrics, and less texture, darkness and heaviness. It's light and airy.

* It’s the perfect moment to put up art in white-colored frames. Ikea has the perfect Ribba frame that really does look like some of the more expensive options.

* Switch out your throw pillows to lighten up your existing color palette. If you have burgundy pillows, bring in fuschia or a pretty peony pink. If you have a lot of orange, go for peach. If you have navy, go with turquoise.

* Lighten up your throws as well. A heavy cashmere throw is lovely to cozy up with during the winter, but for summer, consider cotton.

* And don’t forget to buy summer flowers. I think orchids are elegant.

* For the truly adventurous, you can change your area rugs. If you have a heavier wool rug, you can switch it out to sisal. Stores like HomeGoods carry them at great prices.

* Change your lampshades as well. I love shades made of grasscloth or raffia.

DM: What are some great, affordable online sources for people to consider when decorating?
EG: I love Shades of Light and Circa Lighting for lamps. You will also find amazing things on Overstock.com. I found a great leather chair that happened to be sold for three times the price at another store. I also use Amazon for home essentials..

Elaine enjoys shopping at Shades of Light, which is where she purchased the lamp shown here.

DM: Where do you draw inspiration from?
EG: Inspiration is everywhere. I’m always inspired by what my client wants. Rooms don’t come alive until they’re inhabited so my number-one inspiration is from people. I’m always inspired by the great decorators who came before me. I learned my trade in the office of Peter Marino, so he will always be my ultimate design star. I also like David Hicks, Frances Elkins, Stéphane Boudin, who was Jackie Kennedy's decorator, Albert Hadley, John Fowler, Billy Baldwin and Renzo Mongiardino.

Nature is another inspiration for me, because the creator has created the most exquisite color combinations that are right outside our windows. If a color combination exists in a flower or landscape, it will work in your living room.

DM: Can you share one secret decorators would never reveal to their clients?
EG: We make mistakes.

DM: What are some of your favorite items in your Harlem home?
EG: I’m wild about my dining chairs, which we purchased at the Les Puces flea market in Paris. They were 100 euros each and came from a French prime minister’s palace. I also love a ceramic lamp that I bought for $10 from a thrift store in Harlem when I first moved here. I love my black Regency-style chairs that I reupholstered in orange corduroy from Ralph Lauren Home. They were $30 each. And my Hunt Slonem watercolor that my husband, Michael, gave me for my birthday. I also love shells because I grew up on the South Georgia coast. Although I live in New York, Georgia is still home for me.

Elaine's home in Harlem, including her Regency-style chairs.

DM: What advice would you give to an aspiring interior designer?
EG: See everything. Developing your eye is about exposure. I don’t see enough of us at showhomes. Aspiring decorators should hit every showhouse he or she possibly can. Every city offers tours of various homes as well. You just want to make sure you see different things, and not just one style. It’s important for a designer to be fluent in many styles. And whenever you travel, see the pretty, historic homes. Study floorplans to understand why things are laid out in a certain way and how colors are used. It’s more than just looking at magazines. It’s more about getting yourself into as many homes as you can in your lifetime. You should also aim to work with the most talented designer you can get to hire you to learn the intricacies of our craft, as well as the business side of the job.

DM: Your book, Design Rules, was released in 2009. What's one takeaway for readers?
EG: In America only 14 percent of people use a designer to decorate their homes. For this reason, I wrote a book to help people decorate on their own and achieve professional-looking results. One takeaway I like to remind people of from Design Rules is that curtains should always be hung as close to the ceiling as possible.

DM: Will there be a follow up?
EG: We’re contemplating a follow up to Design Rules, which will be out in 2013. I told readers what to do in terms of decorating in Design Rules, so in this next book, I'll show them how to put it together.

DM: How do you define true style?
EG: You are either born with style or not. You can learn about style and imitate it, but it's hard to conquer if you are not born with it. On the other hand, taste can be learned. Taste is knowing that Chanel is chic and knowing that you don’t wear blingy diamonds to lunch. Style is being able to say I wear blingy diamonds to lunch all the time and pull it off because of who I am. Style is mixing flea market pieces with couture and looking like a million bucks. Style is wearing Jones New York and having it look like Dior on you. It's the same idea when it comes to your home.

A Personal Shopper Never Hurt Anybody...

2011-06-03T18:30:00.000-07:00

We’ve all been there before. You step into a home department store or a flea market and have absolutely no idea of where to begin. You have a fairly good sense of what you like and don’t like in terms of decorating, but need an extra dose of inspiration to help pinpoint the best pieces within your budget to create the stylish, comfortable home you’ve always longed for.

As a precursor to my plan of offering design services, I’m making myself available to offer assistance to my fellow New York City-area dwellers in search of some guidance on the home decorating front. Whether you're living the single life, a newlywed couple, or the owner of the ultimate bachelor pad, having an outside perspective to help personalize your space is key. And besides, who doesn't love a little shopping?

To kick it off, I'm giving away a FREE two-hour personal shopping appointment to one lucky NYC-area resident. I'll accompany you to the home furnishings store of your choice, and will dish out practical tips throughout our experience to help personalize your space. Tweet me via @decormusings with the name of your favorite interior designer, along with the reason why you love his or her decorating style, for a chance to win. The deadline is noon ET on Sunday, June 5. Good luck!

And e-mail info@decormusings.com for more details on my new service, and most importantly, do spread the word.

The Sweeten: The Perfect Source for Hiring a Contractor, Architect or Decorator

2011-05-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

Jean Lauer of The Sweeten

There's no denying the stress that comes with the hunt for a contractor, interior decorator or achitect. The Sweeten aims to make the search easier by giving people the chance to post photos showcasing the work of those they have hired for their own home projects. I had the chance to catch up with Jean Lauer, an architect and CEO and founder of The Sweeten, for some quick tips on hiring the perfect professional for your home project.

Decor Musings: How did you come to launch The Sweeten?
Jean Lauer: I was an architect, working in the high-end residential area for a number of years. I worked on interiors in Manhattan and the Hamptons, and also did some retail architecture. When I started working at Coach, I lucked into a whole new career developing websites to help manage construction in all of their 1,800 stores around the world. Management really liked my work and I was good at it.

At the same time, I was renovating my house in Brooklyn and having all this trouble. I was trying to figure out why there weren't any Web tools to help me facilitate the construction process. I finally took the learning from my four years of handling Web development at Coach and applied that thinking to start The Sweeten. I've personally used The Sweeten to hire a number of contractors to finish renovating my house.

DM: Where does the name The Sweeten come from?
JL: It's a take on the "home sweet home" saying. The idea is that if your home isn’t sweet enough, the website can help you sweeten it.

DM: What's one factor people should consider when looking to hire a contractor, interior designer or architect?
JL: A lot of times, people let price dictate their decision-making too heavily. They choose an architect, interior designer or contractor who might be cheap, but ultimately pay the price in the end for all the delays and other conflicts. Price is key, but it's also important to find someone who is similar to the way you work. You should have checked this person's references and professional licenses to make sure he or she meets all the criteria for your job from a technical standpoint, but it also needs to be a person you feel comfortable working with.

Before and after shots of Jean's Brooklyn apartment.

DM: What's the best way to explain the job at hand to the person you've hired?
JL: A picture is worth a thousand words. If you have a few tearsheets or pulled a few images from the Internet that you love and clearly articulate what you love about those spaces, that will really help. Explain why you love the archways, the cabinetry. Be really specific about the things you like in the photos.

DM: How can people ensure the project is completed to their satisfaction?
JL: Communication is key. Make sure to establish the modes and frequency of communication with whomever you hire before the project starts. Decide if you would like to get status reports weekly or daily, and determine anything else you require personally to make you feel at ease throughout the process.

Brimfield Eye Candy

2011-05-23T17:34:00.000-07:00

Brimfield is really a flea market lover's dream. Every year, thousands of vendors gather in Brimfield, Massachusetts ready to unload their best vintage finds. Even if you're not in the market for anything in particular, it's simply a great source of inspiration for rearranging your furniture or figuring out how to weave antiques into your home. Enjoy this selection of photos from the tons I snapped while there.

Flair + One Kings Lane's Tag Sale

2011-05-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

FLAIR in SoHo, NYC.

I had a great time last night at a cocktail party in celebration of the "Tastemaker Tag Sale" One Kings Lane is hosting with FLAIR. One Kings Lane is a website that gives its members access to high-end home items at discounted rates, and FLAIR is known for its European and American vintage home furnishings. Designers, along with George Nunno and Jon Marato, the owners of FLAIR, have personally selected home accessories and furniture for this special sale.

The party was held at the FLAIR store in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood and was buzzing with interior designers and editors (I had an enjoyable conversation with Michelle Adams of Lonny, and yes, she's as lovely as you'd imagine). To add to the fun, the sale went live on the One Kings Lane website while the party was in full swing. iPads were on hand for guests to shop on the spot or just browse the inventory for fun. It was such a nice touch. The sale ends on Sunday, so do make sure to check it out. I have.

The Queen of European Bedding: Pandora de Balthazár

2011-05-15T18:29:00.000-07:00

Beata "Toni" Antal, a sales rep at Pandora de Balthazár.

Many studies have been conducted on sleep, from how to prepare for it to how to get more of it. I received the best tip ever this weekend while at a tweetup dinner, organized by Gretchen Aubuchon Design, The Daily Basics and Benjamin Moore, for the Brimfield Antiques Show. Cynthia Bogart of The Daily Basics raved about how well she sleeps with the pillows she purchased from a Brimfield bedding vendor by the name of Pandora de Balthazár, who ironically is the Show's "Exhibitor of the Year."

I decided to check out these pillows for myself, and I have to tell you, there's absolutely nothing like them out there. Upon walking into the Pandora de Balthazár tent at Brimfield, you're immediately put at ease with the smell of lavender. I had the pleasure of speaking with Beata "Toni" Antal, a rep for the company, who invited me to test out one of the beds, fully equipped with these oversized pillows made of Hungarian goose down. They are just so soft and luxurious that I honestly could've fallen asleep on the spot.

I especially like the "EuroQueen" pillow, which retails for $280.00 (pretty pricey), but because they're washable, they should be able to last for a good while. I highly recommend them for those of you who are super serious about your sleep.

And the shop itself was so well put together with tons of throw pillows, some monogrammed and others with pretty embroidery, tucked away in armoires. It was hard to leave the place.

My Best Brimfield Purchase

2011-05-14T03:28:00.000-07:00

I spent yesterday scouring the many vendors at the Brimfield Antiques Fair, which is unlike anything I've ever experienced. There are thousands of antiques dealers at Brimfield, meaning there's tons of walking to do, not to mention the traffic you'll be up against. Nevertheless, making the trip is worth it, as long as you don't forget your patience at home. Whatever you're looking for, whether it's an industrial lamp, artwork or vintage jewelry, you'll find there.

Typically, when I'm shopping at a flea market, I'll walk through the space once to get an overall sense of the items available for sale and then do a second run to spend more time with specific vendors that caught my attention. However, at Brimfield, I was forced to ditch this tried-and-true plan just because it's massive. There was no way I'd come back to a vendor a second time, so if there was an item I had to have, I just purchased it on the spot. And don't forget to negotiate. To this point, I even saw a vendor with a sign that read, "Prices subject to change based on your personality." So you get the idea. Dish out the charm, and you might land yourself an amazing deal. It's all part of the fun.

I've been on the hunt for a side table that goes beyond the standard wood options you'll find in stores, and I'm delighted to report that I found it. It's a pedestal made of alabaster, and the height and details make it the perfect option for resting magazines or beverages. Check back soon for more images from my Brimfield trip.

Breakfast Boards from Ritzenhoff

2011-05-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

There's rarely a day where I'll go without having breakfast, so I'm all for anything that makes it feel extra special. In July, German manufacturer Ritzenhoff will be releasing these fun "breakfast boards" that are made of shatter-proof glass and are safe for use in dishwashers. Wouldn't it be lovely to start your day with one of these? They're perfect for kids.

Small, Easy Ways to Give Your Home New Energy

2011-05-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

We're all pressed for time, so while at home, it's all about relaxing in a comfortable, stylish pad. Try these five no-stress tips to breathe some new life into your space in just no time at all.

Plants: Not only are plants great for purifying air quality, there's something about taking in nature while indoors that really can do wonders for your spirit. Ferns and palms are my top choices.

Colorful Accessories: It can be as simple as buying a lamp with a colorful base as seen above, or opting for colorful accessories like picture frames, pillows or pottery to set on a coffee table.

New Paint Color: If you've been stuck with the same old neutral paint color for years, go bold with a new shade that is on the opposite end of what you'd normally choose. Going outside of your comfort zone will not only make you see your home in a new light, it can give you an energy boost as well. Change is good.

Artwork/Photos: I live for moving artwork from room to room and switching out family photos to keep things interesting. And it's so much better than running out to buy something new every time you're seeking a new look.

Photo: Bear-Hill Interiors via Coco + Kelley

Paris On My Mind: Bistro Chairs

2011-05-05T18:30:00.000-07:00

On a trip to Paris years ago, I fondly recall loving the bistro chairs that flooded all the street cafès. They honestly aren't the most comfortable, in my opinion, but like fashion, trodding down the road of chic often means forsaking comfort. And it couldn't be more worth it when it comes to these chairs.

They've been highlighted in a slew of shelter magazines, as seen above in Domino's feature on Katie Lee's home a few years back, and rightfully so. I'm partial to the armless versions in colors like green, blue and red, and see them being used in a small kitchen nook for having a quick breakfast or lunch. Here's a website that carries a bunch of bistro chairs, all for under $300.

Photo: Domino via La Dolce Vita

Work a Room with Stripes

2011-05-03T11:36:00.000-07:00

For people who might be fearful of decorating with color, trying to weave in a pattern, like stripes, into their decor might be a more comfortable alternative to add an element of interest to a space. Aside from having universal appeal (have you met a guy who didn't love them?), stripes are just plain stylish. And there's no better time to experiment with them than with the spring season.

I personally like to see stripes used on rugs (like this one from West Elm) and throw pillows, but you can definitely go for a more bold statement by painting stripes on a wall, for instance.

Photo: Mark Lund via Real Simple

Royal Wedding Home Inspiration: Lace

2011-04-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Lace is back, as evident from Kate Middleton's wedding dress. The trend has long been spotted in home products over the years and for very good reasons. From bedding to throw pillows, it's a fabric that can add just the right touch of elegance wherever you need it in your space. Get your taste of the royal life with these home pieces.

Kate Middleton's much-awaited wedding dress made of lace. Photo: People.com

Charisma "Kalia" Lace Sheets, Neiman Marcus, $135

Primadonna Shower Curtain, Victorian Trading Co., $49.95

Winnifred Antique Lace Pillow, Ralph Lauren, $175

Jewel from Eat.Drink.Shop.Love Talks Fashion and Design

2011-04-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Jewel of Eat.Drink.Shop.Love at the Lavish conference last year and was so impressed by her blog, that I invited her to contribute a guest post on design. Enjoy, and be sure to pay a visit to her blog!

***

Hi there, it’s Jewel here from Eat.Drink.Shop.Love! For this post, I decided to blend my love of fashion and interiors, highlighting a few of my favorite colors--bright orange, mint and mustard yellow--as an inspiration. Check out my inspiration board below:

Photos: bloundesign.com, jcrew.com

I love the curtains in this room! The black-and-white chevron curtains blend well with the orange-striped wall. I could see my home office looking like this with black furniture throughout to play off the curtains.

Photos: Inspired and Charm, Elle.com

I fell in love with this skirt when I saw it. The mint color goes well with the leather belt and the peach top. This color palette would also work in a living room setting. The soft pastels in the room kept the look classic and traditional.

Photos: Asos.com, Apartment Therapy

Paisley and mustard yellow are two of my favorite things. When I saw this settee, I immediately fell in love. I could see this piece of furniture in a sitting room at my house. Like the settee, the crocodile handbag is a classic piece that will last forever.

I hope you enjoyed my post. Stop by my blog, Eat.Drink.Shop.Love, and say hello every once in a while.

Feng Shui Basics

2011-04-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

Ann Bingley Gallops is an expert in feng shui, an ancient Chinese practice that revolves around embracing a life of positivity. And we all know how much our home environment impacts our overall well-being, so I invited Ann, the founder of Open Spaces Feng Shui in New York City, to share a few basic decorating pointers, relating to the principles of feng shui.

Decor Musings: What's the first thing people should consider when seeking to incorporate elements of feng shui into their homes?

Ann Bingley Gallops: The object of feng shui is to have good, healthy chi energy move around your space, nourishing every area of your home, which is also a metaphor for your life. This is why clearing clutter is so important. Clutter blocks chi energy, so get rid of whatever you don't love, use or need. Keep paper clutter under control as well. Prevent any junk mail from coming into your home. Organize your magazines and give them a real place. You can even designate time once a week to clip the articles you want for future reference and save them in a file.

DM: And what are some specific areas of the home that require special attention?

ABG: In feng shui, the three most important areas of your home are your entryway, kitchen and bedroom. The entryway is considered the mouth of chi. You should have a nice door, good lighting, and make sure your house number is visible from the street. It should have a feeling of openness.

The kitchen is the source of your health; it's where you cook to nourish your body. Therefore, the kitchen is also the source of your wealth because if you're not well, you're unable to make a living. Keep it spotless. Make sure the burners on your stove work and your counters are clear of everything except the items you use every single day. You should also be able to see what's happening behind you while you're cooking. So to keep in line with feng shui, a mirror or any other kind of reflective surface would be placed behind the stove for safety. Feng shui is about being secure in your environment as much as it is about decorating.

With your bedroom, it's viewed as the source of your spiritual and physical health, as well as your relationship. The bed is considered the most important piece of furniture in your house. You need to have a bed of good quality. It should be placed in what's called the command position, which allows you to see anyone entering your room. Also, mirrors are inappropriate for the bedroom because they have such hard energy.

DM: Can you share one last point people should always keep in mind about feng shui?

ABG: Think about the primary purpose of every room in your home at all times. So for instance, with the bedroom, you don't want exercise equipment, a TV, or a desk in the space. They have nothing to do with the primary purpose of being in your bedroom. This is essentially how clutter is created, too. The primary purpose of a room is confused.

Photo: Courtesy of Ann Bingley Gallops

Decorating Inspiration from Anthropologie

2011-04-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

I can't say how many times I've written about the home products Anthropologie offers, but I had to share this image from a display at one of its Arizona locations. There are several decorating lessons at work in this one photo.

1. Don't be afraid of prints simply because it's boring to be any other way. Harsh, I know, but it's true, right? If you're not ready to take the plunge with a bold sofa like this, consider gauging your threshold for color by starting out with accessories or bedding.

2. Throw pillows do wonders for any sofa. They can be switched out from season to season and are available at a spectrum of price points. Mix and match colors and textures for a more interesting look. And, of course, they are just plain practical, as they help to elevate the coziness factor of any sofa.

3. Candles are everything. What's not to love about them? They make a house a home. I especially like them in bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms, and I usually opt for those that are lightly scented.

4. Gold/brass elements = glam. You can incorporate this tone into anything from coffee tables to lamps to give your space a dose of luxury.

On My Shelf: Clutter Rehab

2011-04-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

There's always a bit of room to improve your organizational skills and reading Laura Wittmann's Clutter Rehab was my own way of making this happen. Year after year, it seems like becoming more organized is at the top of my to-do list so it was a delight to read through Laura's practical tips. Some takeaways from the book:

Clean a little every day. It pays to break up your cleaning routine by taking just 10 minutes every evening to put things in order.

The "one in, one out" rule. Whenever you bring something new into your home, make it a habit to get rid of one item to help mantain some balance. It's probably one of the easiest ways to tame clutter.

Act fast with junk mail. We all receive tons of catalogs, solicitations and the like that we have no use for at all. Don't waste any time when it comes to tossing this type of mail. If there is something you must hang on to for any reason, file it promptly or even save the information on your computer.

Mask clutter with baskets. My favorite way to store things is with baskets, whether it's to hold magazines or small beauty essentials. It gives a sense of order and prevents items from being scattered around the home.

You can find more of Laura's tips at orgjunkie.com.

The New TRADhome Magazine

2011-04-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out TRADhome, the new collaboration between Lonny and Traditional Home. My favorite features are a roundup of 20 designers who are rethinking traditional decorating (pg. 124) and a piece on some of the common decorating rules designers choose to ignore (pg. 72).

Get Personal with Your Decorating: Monica Rich Kosann Interview

2011-04-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

Last year, I did a roundup of decorating books that offered practical tips on making a space your own. Monica Rich Kosann's Living with What You Love was on that list, and her book's main idea of how to incorporate collectibles, photos and other personal treasures into a home really stuck with me. I recently had the chance to chat with Monica, who's a photographer as well as a jewelry and home accessory designer, to learn more about her outlook on decorating and the art of collecting.

Decor Musings: If a friend came to you, complaining about her home lacking personality, how would you advise her?
Monica Rich Kosann: I believe your home should show your personality or your family’s personality. It’s about telling your story, expressing the things you love and having them around you. For instance, I inherited a white mug from my great aunt that has the name “Agnes” on it. That was my middle name, which I dropped after getting married, but it had a special meaning for me. Instead of keeping the mug tucked away in my cupboard, I decided to put it out on display. I then began frequenting flea markets in search of white pottery and ended up building an entire collection around that one mug.

DM: What’s your overall philosophy on collecting?
MRK: I always say a collection starts when you have three pieces of the same theme. It’s the beginning of an experience. You don’t want to go out and buy 12 pieces that are similar all at once, because then it’s not a collection. The whole point of collecting is the fun, adventure and history that comes with it. It’s also not a matter of how much the items cost either.

DM: How do you avoid clutter when building collections and incorporating them into your home?
MRK: You can’t have everything around you all the time. For example, I personally love collecting teapots, but I can’t have them out every day. When I have guests over, I use them as flower pots. Otherwise, they're kept in my pantry area.

So pick and choose what’s most important to you and figure out how it works with the décor in your home. If you have a very, very country home with shabby chic items, maybe an Art Deco glass collection might be inappropriate.

DM: Where do you shop for collectibles and how do you navigate the markets you visit?
MRK: I love Portobello Road in London, Marché aux Puces in Paris, the flea market in Chelsea, Manhattan, and the annual antique shows in Brimfield, Massachusetts. I also like to visit the flea markets in Asia whenever I'm there.

DM: What's your strategy for navigating flea markets? It can be overwhelming sometimes.
MRK: The best way is to peruse it first to get an overall feel for the different vendors. Then when you walk around a second time, you'll remember that there are certain points you want to hit. Also, if you visit often enough, the vendors get to know you. You can learn so much from them and they really enjoy talking about what they have for sale.

DM: You also love the idea of displaying family photos in a home. What are your tips on getting it right?
MRK: I have photos of my family in almost every room in my house. My entire refrigerator is covered in family photos and people always love looking at them when they come over. In addition to showcasing them in the kitchen, I like creating a family wall, where you take old photos from the past—photos of aunts, uncles, grandparents, great grandparents—and start incorporating them with those from your life. I call it a fine-art family wall. It becomes a conversation.

If you don’t have wall space, you can create vignettes, which I like to call intimate landscapes. Put photos in new or vintage frames and gather them. I like to put five to seven photos in small frames on a tray, or even lean framed photos on bookshelves.

DM: Why do you find decorating fulfilling?
MRK: Every home should have a story to tell—it’s an evolution, not a revolution. Don’t decorate your home and then be done with it. That’s no fun. I am constantly rearranging pictures, vignettes, always adding and subtracting. It's about the things that make your home personal and make your home yours.

All photos courtesy of Monica Rich Kosann

Brooklyn Flea Always Comes Through

2011-04-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

There's no other flea market in Brooklyn that I frequent more than Brooklyn Flea. The Flea moved back outdoors to its Fort Greene space on Saturday and it was so worth the trip. I've purchased so many items from vendors here: various pieces of artwork, a Brooks Brothers belt that's reversible, necklaces, rings, brooches. You get the idea. This time around, I snagged two dresses (one's a lace number from the 50s), but since we talk all things decor here, check out what else caught my attention:

Quoted on ShelterPop

2011-04-02T08:58:00.000-07:00

AOL's ShelterPop is one of my go-to websites for home decorating inspiration, and I just had the opportunity to share my favorite bedding and breakfast picks for its "Bed & Breakfast" column. Here's the post. Enjoy, and have a lovely, lovely weekend.

Swarovski's New Wallpaper Line

2011-04-01T16:39:00.000-07:00

Every girl loves a bit of crystal, especially when it's from Swarovski. Now the brand is taking the design world by storm with its new wallpaper collection, Swarovski Elements, from Karen Beauchamp. There are nine different prints in the collection, spanning from paisley to stripes. Here's a video overview showcasing the line, and a taste below.

All-Time Favorite Posts

2011-03-27T17:06:00.000-07:00

Photo: Ana Flores poster via AllPosters.com

I thought it would be fun to highlight a few of my favorite posts to date. Love, love, love these, and I hope you enjoy them as well:

Five Decorating Don'ts

Fall Decorating Tips from Jabbour Linens

Green Cleaning Tips from GreenHouse Eco-Cleaning

Round-up of Design Coffee-Table Books
(Apartment Therapy also picked this up--see it here)

On My Shelf: Matthew Patrick Smyth's "Living Traditions" Book

2011-03-24T06:13:00.000-07:00

At last week's Architectural Digest Home Design Show, Vicente Wolf and David Easton held a seminar on mixing traditional and modern pieces in homes they've decorated. Piggybacking off this same style of decorating is the new book Living Traditions from interior designer Matthew Patrick Smyth, who credits Easton as his mentor.

Smyth draws some of his inspiration from France, Paris in particular, and believes in the idea of a home being decorated to suit its architecture, as well as its residents' needs and personalities. He likes to decorate with pieces from different centuries for visual interest, yet he follows a refined, simple approach of pulling a space together. The book highlights a varied group of homes, including a Greenwich, CT, colonial to his very own Paris retreat, which displays a well-rounded view of Smyth's capabilities as an interior designer.

The book goes on sale April 19, and I totally recommend it.

Decor Musings Speaks with The Decorista's Ashlina Kaposta

2011-03-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

One of my absolute favorite things is having the opportunity to chat with the people behind the blogs I read regularly (which isn't a very long list). Of those blogs is The Decorista, run by Ashlina Kaposta, who is also an interior designer based in New York City. I had the pleasure of connecting with Ashlina to learn about her spring decorating suggestions and her upcoming advice book. Enjoy these snippets from our chat:

Decor Musings: In terms of decorating, what should people keep in mind for spring?
Ashlina Kaposta: Wood is on-trend right now. I'm seeing a lot of looks incorporating exposed wood. Pink, especially along the lines of watermelon and pomegranate, is also another trend I'm seeing.

DM: Is there one item people should invest in?
AK: It's so hard to pinpoint one item, but amazing artwork is key.

DM: What advice would you give to people who are looking for a better sense of direction with their decorating plan?
AK: When I'm working with a client, I like to examine their color scheme and see what mood they want to convey with their home. Do they want a spa-like feel or a hotel vibe, for instance? Another thing I've noticed that's missing from many people's homes is fabric. I like to dress windows with curtains, incorporate wallpaper and a nice rug. I love to work textiles into a space.

DM: Can you share some of your go-to sources for home products?
AK: I love a one-of-a-kind find so 1stDibs is perfect for this reason. HomeGoods does a good of making the hottest items available to people at affordable price points. I also like ABC Carpet & Home in Manhattan, all the little vintage shops in the Nolita area and the flea market in Chelsea.

DM: You've done very well with your blog, The Decorista. What advice would you give to an up-and-coming design blogger?
AK: My advice would be to find what you love and write about it. Get out there, take pictures and try to find something unique. I like bloggers who discover things I'm unfamiliar with. Also, if you want to make your blog accessible, posting once a week isn't going to help.

DM: What's next for you? Any exciting projects coming up?
AK: I'm actually working on an e-book about how to turn your blog into a business. It will be available at the end of April.

Favorites from the Architectural Digest Home Design Show

2011-03-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

For the second year, I attended the Architectural Digest Home Design Show here in New York, and once again the event didn't disappoint. From custom tiles produced by Artsaics to a David Beahm-designed table set-up inspired by Prince William and Kate Middleton as part of DIFFA's Dining By Design, there was something for just about every design lover.

Don't you just see these tiles in a fashionista's bathroom? They're custom from Artsaics by Nelson Londono and so full of personality.

Here's another tile design from Artsaics. I love the white flowers against the black backdrop.

DIFFA's Dining By Design--My Favorites

David Beahm designed this table, drawing inspiration from Prince William and Kate Middleton. The green plates against the wood table would be perfect for the royal couple.

Green isn't at the top of my favorite colors list. However, this creation by Donald and Katherine Ianziero works so well for the spring season and could be a fun way to entertain guests over dinner.

Ralph Lauren stuck with a summery theme that has Hamptons stamped all over it.

Vicente Wolf's design--perfect for a wedding party.

Incorporating lamps into a table setting, as Diane von Furstenberg has done here, adds a dose of drama to the atmosphere in such a good way.

I see this design from Eric Walker being used to celebrate a graduation, birthday or special wedding anniversary. That lighting fixture is gorgeous.

This is a design by Kravet. A color combination of lime green and deep purple can appeal to both men and women, which I like very much for a dinner party. The orchids were a nice touch.

Also be sure to check out coverage of last year's show here.

Guest Blogger at The Garden Gates

2011-03-19T03:36:00.000-07:00

I'll be contributing to The Garden Gates blog from time to time, sharing my decorating tips and tricks. I'll keep you updated on my posts.

Decorate a Home Office & Boost Your Creativity At the Same Time

2011-03-16T18:46:00.000-07:00

Photo: Freshome.com

When it comes to decorating a home office, my first recommendation would be to choose a lively paint color that is sure to help boost your creativity. If there's one space in your home that can carry a bright paint color (think along the lines of orange, green, even a canary yellow), it's the office. You want to walk into this space feeling energized every time and this is one of the easiest ways to accomplish this.

And of course you might think of displaying your diplomas, awards, and the like, but also consider showcasing pieces of art that speak to you personally or propping special family photos up on your bookshelves for an extra dose of inspiration. Elements that can keep you calm while you try to meet deadlines and fulfill work obligations are key.

Another way to pick up the energy in the space is through fun desk accessories and supplies. There are tons of affordable outlets (one of my favorites is See Jane Work) that offer more stylish options way beyond the standard black stapler or silver metal letter tray, for instance. Get creative with your accessories. You'd be surprised how an element this small can amp up your creativity level.

Get to work, and happy decorating!

A Taste of the Pier Antiques Show

2011-03-13T19:17:00.000-07:00

I attended the Pier Antiques Show in NYC on Saturday and had such fun checking out the vintage jewelry (especially the brooches), magazine covers and ads, clothing and, of course, the furniture. Here are some of the pieces that caught my attention:

The New Lucky Kids Magazine

2011-03-06T17:10:00.000-08:00

For the Lucky magazine fans who've always longed for a children's version of the shopping title, your wait is over. Lucky Kids is now on newsstands with a cover feature on actress Angie Harmon and her experience raising her three daughters in their North Carolina home.

There's something for everyone in the issue--from a feature on fashion designers who are creating children's versions of their staples to the items the magazine's editors now have on their list of must-haves. But my favorite, of course, is the feature on how Lela Rose decorated her nine-year-old son's bedroom. It's quite modern with a clever mix of high- and low-end items and fun pops of color. I also like the "All About You" section filled with beauty tips for busy moms.

The spring issue of the magazine reads very much like the adult title with an emphasis on where to purchase the items featured and just the right amount of descriptive copy to make you want to plan your next shopping trip right away. The next issue will be available in the fall. It's a fun read.

How to Get Out of a Decorating Rut

2011-03-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

Photo: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams

Everyone goes through a period where decorating is the last thing they want to think about. If you ever happen to be stuck in a decorating rut--be it right before beginning a massive home renovation or moving forward on a quick room update to complement a new season--step back and take a moment to recharge with these three easy tips:

Take stock of your current set-up. Walk from room to room, pinpointing the elements of your decor that make you feel good and those you'd like to change somehow. Think about any recurring themes that seem to be evident in your home. For instance, have you noticed that you always buy accessories in one specific color? Are you drawn to the same style when it comes to curtains? This will all give you a more clear idea on your personal decorating philosophy and help you determine what needs to be in place to complete your decorating project to your liking.

Reference the experts. Spend some time perusing shelter magazines, books, the online portfolios of your favorite interior designers/decorators and various home stores to see how different spaces are furnished. Sometimes all it takes is coming across that one striking image to reconnect you to your decorating plan.

Be observant of your surroundings. Most decorators will tell you that they draw inspiration from fashion, traveling, or just about any other field not directly connected to their profession. While following your day-to-day routine, pay closer attention to mundane things like how people are dressed, street signs and advertisements, or even the atmosphere in a restaurant. Believe it or not, inspiration is all around you. You just have to be mindful of it.

Happy decorating!

I'm Quoted on ElleDecor.com!

2011-02-25T15:22:00.000-08:00

ElleDecor.com quoted me in their "Design Insiders' weekly column about one of my favorite websites, Simply Breakfast. Check it out here. And many thanks to ElleDecor.com!!!

Pier 1 Imports' Spring-Inspired Chairs

2011-02-23T17:32:00.000-08:00

Pier 1 Imports' latest offerings have spring plastered all over them. I'm especially smitten with the company's upholstered chairs in floral prints. These options would go really well with a chocolate brown dining table, or tucked away in a cozy corner of a living room. Can't you see it?

Teal Floral Cadman Chair, $199.95

Liliana Floral Chair, $$379.95

Josette Chair, $169.95

Addyson Chair, $299.99

Jenna Lyons' Chic Home

2011-02-20T05:51:00.000-08:00

Here a few photos highlighting the home of J. Crew Creative Director Jenna Lyons. I came across them on Brides.com, which has a great archive of photos from Domino. No explanation needed, right? Her home is chic, modern--just gorgeous....

Valentine's Day Table Settings

2011-02-14T06:14:00.000-08:00

Don't stress yourself out with over-the-top table settings for your Valentine's Day dinner at home. Grab a bunch of pink and red carnations from your local florist, throw a bag of Sweethearts candies or Red Delicious apples into a bowl (preferably crystal), and pick up two red cloth napkins to create the perfect evening. And don't forget a candle or two--they always make everything feel that much more special. Check out these fun images for some additional V-Day inspiration:

MarthaStewart.com

Better Homes and Gardens

Via Designs 4 Living

HGTV.com

Designer Diane von Furstenberg's New Home Collection

2011-02-09T16:52:00.000-08:00

Urban Jungle Bedding. Photo: Bloomingdales.com

We all know Diane von Furstenberg made the wrap dress a staple in every woman's wardrobe. Now the designer has broken into the home category with a collection of vibrant pieces to dress up your bed and add an extra dose of style to your dining experience. Check out the collection on Bloomingdales.com and this New York Times review.

Miro Flowers Dinnerware. Photo: Bloomingdales.com

Gold Leaf Wood Napkin Rings (Set of 4). Photo: Bloomingdales.com.

The Top 5 Reasons Why Domino Magazine Worked

2011-02-07T04:20:00.000-08:00

The premiere and last issues via ShelterPop.

When Domino folded, I couldn't imagine where I'd find another magazine chock full of practical, inspiring design tips and images of well decorated homes. I now get my fix from design blogs and the growing number of online decorating/lifestyle magazines like Lonny (edited by Michelle Adams, who was a market assistant at Domino) and Rue. However, somehow I still find myself referencing my treasured stash of Domino back issues, whether it's just for pure entertainment or to find a quick solution to a personal decorating dilemma. So just for fun and to show Domino some love although it's no longer with us, here are five reasons why the magazine just worked. Drum roll please...

1. It wasn't complicated. There's something to be said about the way living spaces were showcased in its pages. Of course there was a lot of styling involved to produce the beautiful photos that we all connected with month after month, but there was also an element of simplicity about them. The homes never gave off the impression of being overdone and I could often envision myself living in the very spaces I read about in every issue.

2. Trend coverage. The editors did a nice job of capturing home market trends, which is one of the main reasons people turn to design magazines. You want to know about those of-the-moment pieces, even if it's a trend that doesn't fully resonate with you.

Photo: Paul Costello for Domino (via Brides.com)

3. The right dose of secondary content. In addition to stylish homes, there were often pages on beauty and fashion. This all made for a fun mix and, in my opinion, really helped to solidify the magazine as an expert. It demonstrates editorial strength when a magazine can delve into a subject that's not its main focus and still cover it in a way that seems to mesh well with its primary content.

4. Branding. Beyond the print issues, I loved perusing the photos on the magazine's interactive website and was thrilled when it published Domino: The Book of Decorating (which, of course, has a permanent spot on my bookshelf). Brand extensions build reader loyalty and the magazine was definitely on track in this regard.

5. The Covers, the covers, the covers. Covers help to sell magazines and make you want to dig into an issue immediately. There's no denying that Domino's editors mastered the art of crafting great covers. From punchy coverlines to models who looked so happy and comfy in the homes in which they were photographed, the covers were always just right.

Don't you just miss it? I sure do. And if you weren't aware, Brides.com carries some of Domino's images under its home section.

Shopping for a Sofa? Here's What You Need to Know

2011-01-30T15:10:00.000-08:00

Shopping for a sofa doesn't have to be frustrating, especially if you answer some major questions about your lifestyle before hitting the stores. The most important thing to consider when shopping for a sofa is to think about how you use your living room on an everyday basis. Here are some questions to help you decide on the best sofa for your needs:

Do you entertain frequently? If the answer is yes, you might want something that's more on the firm side with great back support.

Are you more the lounging type who likes to relax on the sofa with a good book or a movie? You want an option that you can really sink into, with cozy cushions and a rather soft fabric.

Are there young children in your space? There's no better option than leather, preferably in a dark color such as chocolate brown. It's super easy to clean and it will hold up well over time. For those who aren't into leather, a washable, slip-covered option would also work well.

Your sofa is one of the most used items in your home. Take the time to shop for one you really love--one that's not only stylish and suits your personality, but durable as well.

Photo: Crate and Barrel Willow Queen Sleeper

The Best Home Store in Atlanta: Pieces

2011-01-23T05:52:00.000-08:00

While in Buckhead, Atlanta last year, I checked out Pieces, which has a nice mix of high-end and affordable items for the home. Lee Kleinhelter opened the store in 2004, and it really should be on your to-do list for your next Atlanta trip. Here are a few fun photos I snapped of the store:

Decorating Through Winter Blues

2011-01-18T18:37:00.000-08:00

The weather has been beyond gross in New York City. Snow, rain and cold temps can take a toll on your mood. If you're living in similar weather conditions and a pick-me-up is in order for you, try infusing some energy into your home with these three easy tips:

Fresh flowers. Grab a bunch of your favorite blooms and place them on your nightstand or coffee table. Catching a glimpse of them during the day can instantly boost your energy level.

Colored sheets. Try yellow, pink or even a bold print to add an interesting element to your bedroom.

White bath towels. When I think of some of my best hotel stays, plush, white towels always come to mind. They feel luxurious and can give a bath area a spa-like feel when stacked on shelves or hung nicely.

Photo via DecorationIdeas.org

The Cutest Magazine File

2011-01-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing this magazine file from the Container Store in a number of places, including the latest issue of Lonny. This has to be the most stylish magazine file out there, and I'm loving the brocade design. Get it here for $14.99.

Designer Rebecca Moses' Style Tips

2011-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's been a little while since I've come across a coffee table book that I truly love, and fashion designer Rebecca Moses' A Life of Style is just what I've been missing. It's a fun look at the elements that make for a stylish lifestyle, from your makeup routine and wardrobe to the atmosphere in your home.

It's really like a grown-up children's book (if that makes any sense), with colorful watercolor illustrations accompanied by pretty script. The one takeaway from the book is that stylish people are really born that way. You either have it or you don't. Now isn't that true?!

Random House has a nice slideshow of the inside pages here.

Come on 2011!

2010-12-29T10:07:00.000-08:00

Photo: Fabulously French

Are you ready for the new year? 2010 was fun and full of learning experiences, but it breezed on by for sure. I'm looking forward to all that 2011 has to offer. Have a wonderful new year!

On Decorating...

2010-12-21T18:55:00.000-08:00

Photo: Lonny

Decorating is all about working with only the things you love. The goal is to have pieces in your home that hold special meaning in your life, even if they aren't the most trendy. It's another outlet to express your creative side and speaks volumes about your personality. Even more importantly, it's about having fun. Don't you agree?

Perfect Christmas Entertaining Set-Up

2010-12-13T16:36:00.000-08:00

Photo: Ideal Home (UK)

There's nothing more fun than Christmas entertaining. Keep these in mind to make sure your home celebration is one to remember:

Red accents. Whether it's throw pillows, tree ornaments, or candles on the dinner table, be sure to carry this color from room to room. It gives off great energy and makes a space welcoming.

Candy canes. Just because they're fun and for the simple fact that kids (and adults) love them so. Place a bunch in a vase, rest some on the coffee table or even in a jar on a kitchen counter.

Carols. A party isn't a party without traditional holiday tunes to get everyone in the spirit. Just be sure to keep the volume at a comfortable level so guests are still able to chat with ease.

Cozy blankets. Throw them across sofas to give your living area a cozy feel to make guests more relaxed. I'd personally go for ones in winter white.

For Your Bookshelf: Rizzoli's 'Classic Homes of Los Angeles'

2010-11-30T18:09:00.001-08:00

Los Angeles is one of my favorite cities in the country, so Rizzoli's new book Classic Homes of Los Angeles by Douglas Woods is an absolute treat for me. It features photographs of stately properties with a rich history, boasting architecture spanning styles ranging from Spanish Colonial to Georgian. Each home featured is accompanied by a profile, which offers context on its design and history of how it came to be. There's also something very special about the imagery throughout the book. The photos really pull you in and the level of detail is both satisfying and impressive. Great gift idea for the LA fans in your life.

The Perfect Mirror for Your Closet

2010-11-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

Z Gallerie is one of my go-to outlets for chic, affordable household furnishings. While browsing through its website the other day, I came across this beauty. The white finish of this mirror gives it a fresh look and the elegant detailing makes it most suitable for a closet area. And you can't beat the price--$349. Buy it here.

Pumpkin Patch Thanksgiving Wreath

2010-10-25T16:07:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love seeing all the pumpkins around and gearing up for Thanksgiving? This 'Pumpkin Patch' wreath ($85) from EcoChicNYC's Etsy shop could serve as the perfect welcome for your visitors this season. And if you're not the type to hang a wreath on the door, it could even work as part of your table decor for Thanksgiving dinner. Place it in the middle of the table and fill the center of the wreath with candles in orange, burgundy and ivory.

Inside the Living Room of The Glamourai's Kelly Framel

2010-10-22T11:22:00.000-07:00

It's always exciting to see how fashionistas decorate their homes, and Kelly Framel from the popular fashion blog The Glamourai went with a black-and-white color scheme in her living room that works on so many levels. It's not super feminine, has a nice dose of glam with the gold accents from the coffee table to the deer sculpture, and a modern vibe that still feels welcoming. Love, love, love.

Green Cleaning Discount

2010-10-22T06:18:00.000-07:00

GreenHouse Eco-cleaning is offering a great discount on its green cleaning service. Get green cleaning on any three rooms for just $69. The offer expires on October 31st or for the first 50 people who purchase, so act fast. Learn more.

Five Decorating Don'ts

2010-10-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

When decorating a home, no matter how small, these are the top five no-no's to try avoiding:

Don't...
1. Have all your wood furniture in the same color family (a mix of wood pieces can demonstrate more of your personality and is more interesting to the eye)

2. Fill every single wall in a room with artwork (it can be overwhelming and start to make a space feel crowded)

3. Do away with throw pillows on a sofa (too comfy not to have)

4. Crowd a nightstand with things you don't use or enjoy seeing every day (you want to start the day on a positive note)

5. Ignore your lightswitch covers (why not switch these out from time to time to mix things up in a room? it'll only cost you a few bucks at your local hardware store and paying attention to a small detail like this goes a long way)

Fall Decorating with Jabbour Linens

2010-10-10T07:16:00.001-07:00

Cairo towel. $13-$185.

I invited Jabbour Linens to share some ideas on decorating your home for fall, if you haven't already. Enjoy!

The Bedroom
In the summer, depending on your body temperature, you either sleep in cool sheets or a lightweight blanket. In the fall, chances are you will want to use both. Start your bedding with soft, luxurious sheets and add a goose down damask comforter that is a medium weight for warmth. It’s a good idea to update your pillows every now and then so that you get a more comfortable night’s sleep and can help keep allergies under control. You’ll be surprised at how comfortable a down alternative pillow can be and how much better you’ll feel after resting your head on one.

You can bring the feeling of fall into your bedroom décor by using chocolate-colored sheets and a neutral bedding cover. Add a little bit of spice to your bedroom décor by using an orange cover. If you prefer a more modern feel, use a white comforter and let the color of the sheets peek through the top edge of the comforter.

Fiorentina sheets. $88 and up.

The Bathroom
Few things feel as wonderful as stepping out of a warm bath and wrapping yourself in a plush towel. Update your old towels with new fall-inspired ones with chocolate brown or olive green detailing. You can update your guest towels and bathmat to match your bath towels and complete the look.

The Dining Room
Table linens are wonderful décor accessories that help change the look and feel of a dining area theme. Add a subtle tablecloth or one with a leaf pattern to your dining room table. Keep the colors of fall in mind and choose a golden, brown or orange tablecloth. If you use placemats or cloth napkins, you can mix and match the colors for a more colorful and unique look. Just imagine the glow of a golden tablecloth topped with a range of placemats and napkins.

The Den
Linens in the den? Unless the room includes a small table that needs a tablecloth, many people don’t think of needing linens in the den. However, if you like to cozy up while watching a movie, it’s always nice to have a throw nearby to keep warm. Our favorite this fall is the Mohair throw because it’s warm, soft and available in many different solid colors and color combinations.

Mohair throw. To order, call 516-674-9526.

R. Jabbour & Sons first opened its doors in New York City over 80 years ago. Passed through four generations of family, R. Jabbour & Sons continues to be a trusted and highly knowledgeable resource for the finest bed, bath, and table linens. Its loyal following of customers rely on the utmost attention to detail and service.

Expert Design Tips from Williams-Sonoma Home

2010-09-28T16:23:00.000-07:00

Are you familiar the 'Designer Series' on the Williams Sonoma Home website? It's full of candid interviews from design experts (think Grant Gibson, Alexa Hampton, Carolyne Roehm...) about common decorating issues ranging from working with a small space to infusing art into a room. It's worth checking out.

Get Lonny in Print!

2010-09-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the memo, Lonny is offering polished, bound print copies for a fee. Nice idea, especially for those of us who just can't break away from holding beautiful magazine pages.

The Verdict on Rue

2010-09-20T19:35:00.000-07:00

Those who miss Domino should be delighted about the launch of the Rue web-only magazine from Editor in Chief Crystal Gentilello. It definitely has a Lonny vibe, as it uses the same Issuu platform where you can turn pages like a print issue. My favorites in the mag are the Grant Gibson feature highlighting the design stores he likes to visit in Sacramento, a list of favorite things from Holly Becker of the decor8 blog and Ronda Carman of All the Best, a Q&A with Habitually Chic's Heather Clawson, and the beautiful images of Gentilello's Chicago apartment. I'm looking forward to future issues!

Inside Chris Madden's Design Philosophy

2010-09-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

The Soul of a House (published by Rizzoli) from Chris Madden is hitting bookshelves on October 19 and promises to be filled with practical advice from the designer on decorating your home with the goal of turning it into a haven. Plus, there are photos of her family's carriage house in upstate New York. I plan to review the book in the coming weeks, but for now, here's an audio preview to wet your appetite.

A Little Jonathan Adler to Tout Your Zodiac Sign

2010-08-31T16:19:00.001-07:00

Decorating doesn't always have to be super serious and these pillows from Jonathan Adler say just that. Instead of placing this kind of pillow in the living room, I'd recommend one in a child's bedroom or a home office. Versions in all the different signs are available on Barneys.com for $98 each.

Michelle Adams on Tory Burch's Blog

2010-08-26T18:08:00.001-07:00

Wonder what the editor in chief of Lonny, Michelle Adams, has in mind for a stylish fall? Check our her feature on Tory Burch's blog.

West Elm's Pebble Lamp

2010-08-26T16:16:00.001-07:00

Pebble Table Lamp, West Elm, $179

One of the easiest ways to add a touch of glam to a room is with a stylish lamp. This number from West Elm would mesh well with just about any color scheme and the silver glass base gives it a nice bit of personality. It's also a great option for those who tend to shy away from colorful accessories, but still want to incorporate some kind of eye candy into a space.

Favorites of the Moment

2010-08-24T16:36:00.000-07:00

A few things I'm loving at the moment...

* anything with navy and white stripes

* rugs from Dash and Albert

* vintage aprons (Boojiboo's Etsy shop has some adorable ones)

* doormats (who says they can't be personalized?--check out the styles this company offers)

* ferns (although they never last in my place)

Photo: Ralph Lauren/Macys.com

Vogue's Book of Etiquette

2010-08-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

There's nothing more frustrating than bad manners. Originally published in 1948 and written by Millicent Fenwick, Vogue's Book of Etiquette is a must-read if you need tips for proper decor when it comes to:

* furnishing/decorating a house and making guests feel welcome
* cocktail party planning
* formal entertaining
* letter writing

It's full of guidelines on these topics and so much more. I find myself using it as a reference time and time again. eBay has a few copies listed for sale here.

Score Vintage Pieces at Obscure Object in Williamsburg

2010-08-20T13:21:00.001-07:00

The next time you're in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, make it a priority to trek over to Obscure Object (646.251.3862, 20 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211). I happened upon the store recently and could've spent a few hours looking through all the unique treasures, ranging from rare magazines and books to china and wood furniture. It just opened in April and the owner, Jess, frequents estate sales in Vermont to stock the shop. The displays throughout the space are inviting and Jess is super friendly. And the best part is that the prices are reasonable and when you purchase anything, instead of printing a receipt, Jess logs the transaction into her iPhone and e-mails your receipt. Don't you love it?

Here are a few photo highlights to give you a taste of the shop:

Green Cleaning with GreenHouse Eco-Cleaning's Saudia Davis

2010-08-19T16:00:00.000-07:00

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Saudia Davis, the brain behind GreenHouse Eco-Cleaning, a New-York based green cleaning service. Saudia started her business in 2006 after her grandmother, a professional cleaner, passed away from cancer. Saudia believes her grandmother's health declined as a result of inhaling harsh chemicals in cleaning products over the years. For this reason, she set out to spread the word about sustainable living through her green cleaning service. "Think about how you interact with the world and how you can make better choices," Saudia says. "You'll be surprised that green living is not a hard process. It's about incorporating green elements into your life in simple ways."

Here are some of Saudia's green cleaning tips:

Clean a little bit every day. This will make cleaning more manageable for you and more importantly, you can lower your stress level by keeping spaces neat and clear of clutter. Having a clean space also decreases the probability of developing illnesses.

Try natural cleaning solutions. A mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be used to clean ovens, bathtubs, glass and even chrome. Ketchup can be used to clean copper. And if you couple vinegar with olive oil, you can use it to clean wood furniture. Using natural solutions doesn't mean you need to discard the cleaning products you currently own, Saudia says. "Using them up is actually a better solution because once they're dumped, they end up getting into the soil, which then means it'll end up in our water."

Invest in an air purifier. Indoor air quality can be just as toxic as outdoor air quality, especially in the New York area, where most people live near busy streets. Maintaining the air quality in your home can help you breathe and sleep better, control allergies and prevent migraines and other pains. Saudia recommends Hepa air filters/purifiers.)

Know what's in the cleaning products you purchase. Many advertisers are guilty of green washing, so to find out if the cleaning products you buy are truly eco-friendly, secure an MSDS (material safety data sheet) for information on a product's contents. Just because it comes in a pretty bottle and mentions that it's biodegradeable doesn't make it good," Saudia says.

So what's the cleaning strategy for someone who runs a green cleaning service? "Everything I bake, cook and clean with are all in the same place and are all interchangeable," Saudia says. "It should never be that I'm using a product and feel I can't breathe."

Photo: Courtesy of GreenHouse Eco-Cleaning