craving {subtle impact}

When it comes to accessories many people feel that color and pattern are the only way to add a punch. However even the most understated colors can make an impact and do so while remaining sophisticated...

(driftwood console from south of market, crystal vase from barneys new york, cb2 area rug and bungalow 5 tray)

natural sanctuary

I have been back from Italy for a few weeks now and am already craving another getaway. A lovely little escape to this vacation home would be quite divine. I love the simple design, natural elements and neutral palette--a perfect combination for a sanctuary.


(via AD France)

perfect recipe {clay + terra cotta}

Alright, those of you who love interior design will understand it when I say that a well designed room can really make you feel euphoric. It is the same way I feel when I perfectly execute a new or challenging entree recipe (which is rare!). And for my neutral loving side the mix of terra cotta and clay in these rooms make me feel downright giddy--then mix it in impeccable styling and euphoria sets in...

(via chicago home and gardens - interior design by arden nelson)
So what pushes your buttons?

simple design with shine

Simple is sometimes best but I am always an advocate for a little twist with clean and simple design--just a little something that sets the room apart. These kitchens are clean, modern and chic with a little twist that makes the divine--high gloss surfaces.


(via vt wonen and atlanta homes and lifestyles)

seaside {subtly} chic

Summer is officially here and it is time for people to venture off to there seaside summer retreats. This also means that beach homes are popping in almost every shelter magazine I open. I used to love the classic blue, red and nautical touches in these seasonal homes but am now drawn to a more sophisticated look, one that subtly draws on the colors and textures of a beach setting--just like these...

(via homes and gardens, scanned from veranda and nuevo estilo)

al fresco {the basics}

Al fresco season is officially here and I have been pulling out all my essentials for a lovely outdoor feast. If you are starting your al fresco arsenal from scratch here are a few basics that will surely make your party the talk of the town...and yes a conversation piece bottle opener, like this horseshoe really is essential.

(kim seybert napkin rings, burlap wrapped vases, horse shoe bottle opener, nickel lantern, round rush placements and wicker acrylic tray)

sweet tooth {zig + zag}

Just a little sweet send off to the weekend. If you love chevron I am pretty sure that your jaw will drop over this amazing wedding cake by Sweet and Saucy...

craving {rustic butcher block}

Although not having to cook for two weeks while on vacation was a treat I am quite happy to be back in the kitchen tonight--actually making tortilla soup to try and quell the sore throat I fear jet lag has brought on. However, I would love being in my kitchen even more if I had one of these lovely butcher block tables to prepare my dinner on...

(via canadian house and home and nuevo estilo)

jet lag

I just returned from two weeks in Europe last night and the 8 hour time change has left me completely jet lagged. I am definitely in need of spending some time in a bold and bright space to keep me awake to a reasonable hour tonight and make it through my birthday dinner!

(via 1st dibs)

By the way, the trip was incredible and I will post photos soon, once I have the energy to edit all 1,600 of them!

whisper + glimmer

I am flying back to the states today and as I have probably mentioned before I am not the biggest fan of flying. I could definitley use some time relaxing in ones of these room touched with calming whisper soft blue and glimmering gold.


(via D Home)

event inspiration {playful + fresh}

Today is my little brothers wedding day and I thought it only appropriate to share an event inspiration board. This particular one embraces a playful, fresh and whimsical style--perfect for a casual summer wedding!

(invitation via green wedding shoes, thread social dress, flowers by a.hana design, table via jose villa and cake via elizabeth messina)

soaking it up

I have always had a soft spot for clawfoot tubs...there is something so nostalgic and romantic about them. These two bathrooms have kept the lust for having one alive and well.

(via real living and living etc)

{eye candy} a grand entrance

Washed wood and a delicate chandelier are the perfect combination to make an entryway romantic and elegant, yet casual...

(via interiores)

loving (dark + weathered}

There are many items on my list of dream house "must haves" but lately a kitchen full of weathered and dark wood if climbing to the top of the list!


(vt wonen and elle decor)

bold + blue

I always gravitate towards turquoise-no matter what room or what I wear I try to incorporate it. It is bold, beautiful and bright...

(dannijo necklace, jonathon adler pillow and judy ross rug)

playful dining

I meant to post this playful dining room on Monday but I had some technical difficulties and just resist a belated posting of it. Such an incredible mix of styles!

(via nuevo estilo)