As I recently mentioned, one of my projects has been featured in The Cottage Journal for their Fall issue! Here's my original post on the announcement. I'm just over the moon about it!
The issue is now available on newsstands, and I've already gotten a couple of questions about some of the furnishings from readers - like the semi-custom barstools (which I will discuss later)! If you are not familiar with this wonderful magazine, here's your chance. Their website offers you a sneak peek of what they provide in every single issue (let me just say, they are bringin' it). Click here for a sneak peek.
Since the article on my project really focuses on the kitchen/breakfast area of the space, you will have to grab a copy of the magazine to see the details there. But, I thought it would be fun to give you some details on the family room space which was also part of the overall project.
Here's the original design layout . . .
FYI, my design layout software has changed a great deal since I did this plan. But, it will at least give you the general idea on the space.
And here are a few pictures of the space taken during the photo shoot. When my client called me to help her she had already ordered the rustic custom table for the space and wanted to reuse the artwork seen over the mantel. So, I got busy selecting the other pieces for the space to blend the two styles.
Here's a shot of the space from another angle. As you can see it is a large, light filled space with a tray ceiling. On a side note, we added a pair of these rustic chandeliers to the space. I just love them. They are a knock off of a very expensive chandelier. These were a fraction of the originals, and I found them here - Old World Chandy (they are heavy and look amazing in person). Also, remember, if you are thinking of adding a chandy, you need to be sure it will fit - Measuring for a Chandelier.
Here's the reading nook in the far corner of the space. A perfect place to sit and surf the net.
Here's a close up the accent fabric we used to add pop to the otherwise neutral space.
I hope you'll pick up a copy of the issue. It is simply overflowing with Fall inspiration. I promise it will definitely get you in the mood for the upcoming season! M.
I can't believe that summer is coming to an end. We received school registration information last week for the junior high. Needless to say, it has been a very different summer for me. With my Mom's surgery and lots of challenges with her recovery, it has not been the summer I envisioned it would be last Spring. But, we have had many moments of sheer summer bliss, along with lots of blessings from her experience. I'm totally grateful for these as they've helped me to see that God is good, even in the mist of our suffering.
So, before I get back into all things interior design, I wanted to share a few highlights of our summer. I hope yours has been just as interesting and full of fun.
Ok, first up, I've been obsessed with this artist's ability to paint water. These paintings evoke memories of my childhood and jumping into a pool or lake. Just love them! Since I'm not a painter, I marvel at this kind of talent.
I've been rocking out in the car to this song all summer - Get Lucky. You know how certain songs make you think of certain times of the year. Well this one will forever remind me of summer! It's totally a throwback disco song and I'm so hoping it will start a trend for more disco songs! My son found this youtube video where they have dubbed this current song onto the dance moves of some kids on Soul Train. Just look, it totally fits! Thinking that's why I love this song - I watched a lot of Soul Train and American Bandstand when I was a kid. The bow ties are cracking me up on this!
While at the lake with some sweet friends this summer, we toured the only Frank Lloyd Wright House in the state of Alabama - the Rosenbaum House. A real treat for me to see it. Remember, I toured his studio on a trip to Chicago last Fall so it was interesting to see a slighting different design in this Usonian (named for the United States of America) style home. Btw, the man who gave us the tour was so knowledgeable, and you could tell he loved his job!
We had dinner at the 360 Grille which is a rotating restaurant atop a beautiful hotel overlooking the Tennessee river. My kids had never seen anything like this and were completely mesmerized trying to figure out the mechanics of the whole thing! I just enjoyed the food, wine and view! It was really special.
This photo of 360 Grille is courtesy of TripAdvisor
We've had many discussions this summer about the Green Flash. To date this elusive phenomenon has totally escaped us, but I am determined to see it in my lifetime!
The production began just at sunset, and it was a wonderfully cool evening in early summer - perfect for sitting outside. During the first half of the show, we looked up and saw hundreds of June bugs attracted to the spot lights. A real summer experience (sort of like smelling cut grass). But by the second half of the show, they had completely disappeared. This is not the actual actress who played Helen, but I have to say the child did an amazing job.
I just discovered Lewis and Wood fabrics - particularly "Cobweb" . . .
There's something classic yet midcentury modern about this fabric. I think it could really blend those two styles together in a great way. Always love a fabric you just don't see everyday.
We were turned on to this comedian named Brian Regan. What I love about his routine is that it's completely clean and hilarious - a very rare combination for stand up comedy. My kids can quote almost every one of his routines. The walk around our house quoting him and laughing. My favorite is this one on "I walked on the Moon." (it's at the very end of this standup routine and it makes me laugh out loud!)
Our July 4th beach trip was a total wash (literally - there was major flooding on 30A). So, we celebrated the 4th here in Birmingham. We found a wonderful vantage point to see the fireworks and the rain stopped just in time for the show. It turned out to be a lovely evening.
Then we were off to the mountains with my husband's entire family to Montreat, N.C. for a week with all the cousins. We do this trip most summers, and my kids love it!
We ventured out to sliding rock, lookout falls and a new jump off place. The water feels like you've jumped into an ice chest!
Then, I took the girls to the Biltmore House for a self guided tour. We then enjoyed a "ladies lunch" in Black Mountain where we discussed our favorite rooms and then things in each room that we loved! There was a close tie between the Breakfast room and Mrs. Vanderbilt's bedroom as our favorites.
I think I've eaten my weight in this completely delicious avocado egg salad this summer. It's good on a bed of mixed greens or as a sandwich. Very Yummy.
My summer read has been this (very dense) book a friend loaned me called At Home - it's a history of everything in your home that you use everyday and probably have no idea why it's called what it's called. Very interesting.
My kids also spent some quality time with my brother and sister-in-law. It's always a party with them - fishing, lounging, movies, swimming, water slides, you name it!
They even have an underwater camera - love this shot of my daughter!
So, now it's time to get back to my favorite subject - interior design! During my summer break, I've seen lots of inspiring things, along with some really great installations of some of my projects. I'll be sharing it all with you here at the Muse in the next few months. I'm going to slowly build back up on my number of weekly posts. It's great to be back! M.
OK, first, we have a winner of the Shabby Apple dress giveaway! It's comment number 4 from Malfaldo. I hope you enjoy the dress, and please send us pictures of how you decided to style it for early Fall.
Now, for the exciting news!!! Back in the Spring, I had one of my projects photographed for a possible feature article in The Cottage Journal! As many of you know, a photo shoot does not always mean your project will end up in the magazine. So, while it's very exciting to be a part of a shoot, there's always a bit of cautious anticipation (aka breath holding). Well, I just got news my project made it into their Fall issue, and I'm beyond thrilled about it! If you are not yet familiar with The Cottage Journal, you are in for a real treat! This magazine is a bi-monthly publication which allows the staff to devote more time and energy to each issue. Let me just say - it definitely shows. The images are true eye candy. I just finished pouring over the Fall issue, and honestly, it will have you craving a cup of hot chocolate, even in August!
The Cottage Journal is just one of eight amazing magazines under the Hoffman Media publishing umbrella which was founded by Editor-in-Chief Phyllis Hoffman DePiano. While they are based in Birmingham, each issues includes features from all over. The Fall issue alone features stunning homes from New Orleans to Carmel, plus some fun tips on antiquing in Brimfield, Massachusetts just to name a few. So, I can't tell you how honored I am to have one of my projects featured in the issue!
While I can't show you the images included in the issue (you'll have to get the magazine to see these), here are a few photos I took during the shoot. These ladies were a ton of fun to be with for the day. Here's the very talented Marcy Simpson getting just the perfect angle of the family room looking into the kitchen. Believe me when I tell you there is a huge difference in pictures taken by a professional! Truly amazing what this girl can do with a camera in her hands.
The kitchen and breakfast room are the main focus of the article, so I'm showing you some images from the adjoining family room. You'll have to pick up the issue to see the images they captured for the article! Here's a picture of Marcy checking her shot, and Editor Linda Wright giving her wonderful feedback to the take.
Here's a shot of a reading nook tucked into one of the corners of the family room.
And close up of the linen accent pillow in the leather winged back chair.
My client, Rosa Hooper, has the most stunning back yard. So, I had to snap this picture of these beautiful windows that look out on her garden.
Here's a close up of a french styled bench which we reupholstered in a striped fabric to give the entire piece a more casual, rustic feel. We also created a pattern with the stripe for one more point of interest.
I'll share more of the details on this project once the fall issue of The Cottage Journal is on newsstands. In the meantime, if you want to subscribe to this amazing publication, click here for the details. Enjoy your day! M.
Given our week, I just wanted to let you know how much you mean to me on what seems to be a bittersweet Mother's Day for us. I know you already know what I'm about to say, but I think it's still worth saying . . .
Your complete, un-waivering love overwhelms me on a daily basis. When I look back over my life experiences, you are in every single one of my memories. You are there. A true gift from God, you are; and I'm so grateful for you.
From the celebrations (academic accomplishments, marriage, and births of my babies) to the miserable failures (suspension from school, slamming of doors, paying for a law degree that is not being used, and the tumultuous friendships) I've experienced in my life, you are always there. A true gift from God, you are; and I'm so grateful for you.
Your hands have always been there to support me, preparing me to take flight in whatever new endeavor I'm into at the moment. All the while, not gripping me so tight as to prevent my flight. A true gift from God, you are; and I'm so grateful for you.
Now that I have children of my own, I realize how difficult the dance is - support without suppression, the balancing of work and family, disciplining while continuing to nurture, and eventually transitioning from parent to friend. I know there have been times I've disappointed you, hurt your feelings and embarrassed you; and I know you have already forgiven me. A true gift from God, you are; and I'm so grateful for you.
I also know you've been scared for me and recognized my bad choice long before I could see it, yet you allowed me to experience my choice. I know this was a very difficult thing to endure. But, thanks to your ocean of wisdom, it has made me a better person. A true gift from God, you are; and I'm so grateful for you.
Yes, Mom, what a huge sacrifice your life has been - a constant selfless act of love and labor. I can only pray I will be able to love and support my own children in a way that your example has given me. Thank you for everything you do for me! It has never gone unnoticed. I just don't always say it out loud. But, you already knew that . . . On this Mother's day weekend, here's wishing you joy, comfort and peace. I love you very much; and I am so grateful to God that he gave me such a wonderful gift!
***I rarely ask for anything from my readership, but today I have a huge request. My wonderful Mother was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this week, and she is in need of your prayers. Please pray for her as we tackle this news.
I've been super busy with design plans for clients. So, for you faithful readers, I'm sorry the blog has suffered. As they say, "Life Just Happens." Just know, I am not tired of posting nor am I out of ideas. It takes time to draft an interesting post and time is what I have very little of these days. So, I hope you will continue to stick with me. Like all lines of work, things ebb and flow - so I know I will be able to get back to it more regularly in a few months.
Today, I wanted to talk about what inspires you to do the things you do - cook, work, dress, choose your friends, or decorate your home? I include all these things because not only can inspiration come from very unlikely sources, it can also inspire you in very unlikely ways. The answer to this question can be extremely interesting and enlightening for others. Hopefully, it can help all of us find inspiration in different places.
Here are just a few random examples of inspiration for me as of late. . .
While I'm working on design plans for clients, I wade through lots and lots of unrelated items. For example, the last couple of weeks, I've been working on living spaces. So, when sourcing pillow options for clients, I bump into things that inspire me. Hello, gorgeous.
Although it doesn't work for the living rooms I'm working on, it would be the perfect jumping off point for a "Room To Grow Into" for a little girl. I love working on projects with an eye to allowing the space to evolve over time. This can be tricky. For a little girl's room, you must find special fabrics with a whimsical vibe, but also a tween factor so they can grow with the child. This fabric would be totally perfect! So, I have filed it away for when that special project comes along.
Same here for a girl who does not love a ton of pink (like my daughter). . .
I'm also inspired by the way an image makes me feel. Notice the lighting in this picture. It makes me think of either morning or late afternoon (two of my favorite times of day). I looks like the perfect temperature - not too hot or too cold, but perfect (maybe late Spring, early Summer). Very relaxing and anticipatory - I can just imagine sitting here with friends or family and enjoying each other's company.
This ring inspires me - It makes me think of a chic space with lots of brass. Also, at first glance it may not seem super important, but upon closer look, you realize what you are seeing - these are raw diamonds. I love it when you can accomplish this in a space. Lastly, I adore things that are different from everybody else's. This is one reason, I like to start a design by using items the client already has - I feel triumphant when I can make a client fall back in love with an item they already own!
Just because someone makes it look effortless, does not mean it's so! I remember the first time I saw a friend do a backhand spring in junior high. I thought, "If she can do, I can do it." Well, not so!!! Now that I'm an adult, the same holds true for lots of things - like entertaining, cooking and even looking great. Just remember this when you try something new and fail, great things take practice.
I also think the human connection can be very inspiring. Whether it's a couples chemistry . . .
This same human connection is present when I'm hired to work on a family's home. There is something that happens when someone is brave enough to allow you to help them with their space - it can be very special and vulnerable at the same time. This always inspires me to come up with the best possible design plan I can for their space. I want it to be special and "Wow" them. I want for them what they want out of the design consult.
I'm also inspired by quirky, I dare say, odd things . . .
Quirky things make me smile. period. I think they can be very disarming and lure you in all at the same time. As for interior design, I think quirky things make a space feel more interesting and unique. I love including items in a design plan that you can't just go out and purchase anywhere. I find there is usually at least one quirky accessory already in the space I can highlight in a fun way.
What do you get when your husband is out playing golf and your kids are spending some quality with with the grandparents for a week?
You get some stuff done!!! Like cafe curtains for the breakfast room.
I was finally able to add some much needed fabric to my breakfast room. I think I've mentioned this a couple of times, but after painting my kitchen and breakfast room it lost its warm feel. These were very easy to make - I did not line them. Also, since we really did not need them for privacy, and I did not want to block our view, I kept it very simple.
Don't get me wrong, I love the new wall color, but it does have some gray in it and because I also painted the trim the wall color, it seemed big and a bit cold. This can be a common problem for kitchens and bathrooms in general. So, fabric to the rescue!
Since my rug purchase at Scott's, I've really been thinking and rethinking the direction of my front foyer/ living room. It's funny how one simple addition to a space can do that for you. Here is a reminder of the rug in my foyer (the new guy).
And here is a close up of the Heriz in my living room (hard to see, but this rug has black, red, green, gray, blue, orange in it). Also, the space is formal and I really want to keep it that way. I know lots of people are getting rid of their formal spaces. We love to entertain and I like having two different spots depending on the type of party we are having at the moment.
All the upholstered pieces in the space are very neutral. As for the window treatments, they were fine before, but now with the new rug, they are just not working. Also notice I have not be able to commit to pillows in here either. The main problem is that I see so many beautiful fabrics, that I don't want to pick just one, so I have refrained from picking any! But things are about to change.
First, an inspiration picture for the idea of neutral with a pop. This room is more gray than mine, and the pop is pink (rather than red/orange). But the idea of neutral upholstered pieces with a color pop is the idea.
I'm thinking - 1. The room needs more black. The baby grand piano, the drum shades and the pair of prints on the wall is helping, but I need black fabrics on the sofa and chairs to carry the color through the rest of the space and tie the rugs, make them feel more purposeful. 2. I need to edit the window treatments. They came with the house and served a purpose for awhile; but it's time to move on. I'm thinking about a smokey gray silk with a fabulous tape on the lead edge of the panels. Maybe like these . . .
or these that are a bit warmer, yet still grey.
Then, I would add a neutral tone on tone tape to them just for interest. Something like this would be pretty.
Now for some accent pillows. Since the Heriz if very busy, I'm thinking I need at least one (maybe two) accent fabric in a black/grey yet a simple pattern (to contrast the busy rug). I think this would go a long way in neutralizing the space and allowing the two rugs to be the feature. Here are a few fabrics that have caught my eye as accent pillows. Not sure which ones yet or even where they would go, but there are lots of fabric opportunities in the space - on the sofa, in the bergere' chairs, the accent chairs in the foyer, and maybe even on the piano bench.
Some texture would be good in the way of a linen.
Option One
Option Two
Option Three
Option Four
And possibly a silk just to tie in the window treatments.
Option Five
Lu Huv this one. It is oh so yummy! It's got the creams, greys, blacks and warm beiges in it. could really pull things together in there.
Option Six
Since my sofa is light, a saturated black might be just the thing for a long sofa pillow. The trick to making black work in a formal space with neutrals is to pick patterns that do not include a stark white, rather a creamy background is the way to go.
Option Seven
Really like the idea of this one too.
Option Eight
3. Lastly, the sofa, chairs, etc. needs a small dose of red. Since both rugs are screaming red, a small shot of it coupled with cream should do the trick. I love both of these for a sophisticated feeling. This one is topstitched for some added texture (which I love on pillows).
Option One
This one also gets me. It has a mid century modern thing going on and I think it would really look great with the rugs.
Option Two
Then, once I've added some pop in this space, I'm thinking my den could use an even more vibrant pop of red. I will have to share those fabrics with you later this week! In case you were wondering, fabrics are one of the main reasons I love interior design. Textiles add personality to a space. So, don't under estimate their power to shape a room! Hope your week gets off to a great start! M.
