Settling In

I have moved from California to New England.
Definitely the biggest move I have ever experienced.
Day 5 of New England life and I am finally finding my notes, my socks, and the kitty is relaxing.
A pallet containing the balance of my belongings is en route. In the mean time I am getting caught up on wrapping up California projects and mapping out my objectives here. There will be still be plenty of travel to the west coast for design clients, but it's no longer "home".

There is a plethora of shells everywhere. Not the cute little ones from the pacific ocean, but large thick ones from the cold waters of the Atlantic. My goal this year is to make a chandelier similar to the one below:

I have been lusting over Oly's lighting since I discovered (and put in many homes) in 2005:

Anti-DIY by nature, I am lover of design but allergic to crafts so this will be interesting.

Coastal living seems to be my fate, regardless of temperature. It's time to embrace and treasure it.

Happy Monday!

Happy Monday!

Design Dilemma: Barstools

Once in awhile I come across a design "delimma" worth sharing. This week its barstools. More specifically, counter stools. A design client is stressed over not being able to find shallow barstools and feels that barstools should be flush with the counter when not in use. I was asked to elaborate on what is "normal".

Well, unless you have a tight walkway (less than 36" from back of stool to wall/cabinet, etc) then don't stress over it. Stools need to be functional and have room for both adults and children to sit. I am a big believer in fine tuning the details of a home-but sometimes you need let practicality rule the day.

Below are the photos I emailed that client to help them understand the dilemma was normal. He returned his barstools anyway, and I am hoping the counter stool  journey comes to an end soon :)

All images via house beautiful

In Progress: South Bay Atomic Ranch

There are an abundance of split level ranches in the South Bay. The clean lines lend themselves to a simpler DIY remodel and mid century Style.

Equally inspired by Dwell and Atomic Ranch magazines, the living and dining room remodel is in progress.

  

Budget management is key when remodels are needed, make sure you establish a budget with your designer that is realistic-then stick to it

(Click to Enlarge)

 

Martini table from west elm adds a pop to the color scheme and is budget friendly. 

 

Little bit of funk from ferm living....

Sorry, not going to spend thousands on original Saarinen Tuliptables, knock-knock-offs will do just fine!

 

  

paired with west elm oval back chairs

 

These are rather scrambled notes, but it IS possible to get an aunthentic look without purchasing expensive mid century DWResque pieces OR buying craigslist cast offs. We have created a happy medium.

The personalization lies in the details of the home-the artwork and keepsakes will communicate the personalities of the homeowners.

Off to hunt for framed vintage album covers and mid century blown glass light fixtures...

Turquoise 2010 series: in the Kitchen

 In keeping with my Turquoise Tuesday tradition, I thought I'd share three very different uses of turquoise.

 

I have always been a sucker for horizontal glass tiles. The effect is both crisp and soothing.  I love everything about this kitchen.

This is a total commitment to color, from the cabinets to the floor to the countertops-to the ceiling!

This kitchen uses IKEA cabinets but luxurious marble countertops. The use of apple green and bright aqua (with touches of turquoise) is kept to accents only-textiles, dishes, and a lamp shade. If you would like to try a color in small doses (quite like dating a color before marrying it :) try Crate and Barrel's Regent Dinnerware.

Happy Monday!