Best Projects of 2014
Well hello there friends. How was your Christmas? Ours was great. We have Christmas at our house early and drove down to visit family out of state for Christmas morning. There are so many toys laying around it's driving me crazy!! I've enjoyed the break being home with the kids and doing nothing. I really needed this break.My mom gave me a break yesterday and I decided to pack up the
MY NEW FAVORITE "PRETEND" HOUSE!
i recently fell SOOOOO in love with this house on pinterest!!and i can only imagine what the inside looks like....so here are my thoughts.......COTTAGE AND VINETHIS OLD HOUSEANNE HEPFERMY DESIGN CHICHOME BUNCHDOMINOMERIDALUCY WILLIAMSHOUZZSUZANNE KASLERPINTEREST
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas to all of my wonderful friends here in the blogging world. I am so lucky for your constant support and encouragement! 2014 has truly been a wonderful and busy year, and although I haven't been able to blog as much as I would have liked the past few months, I wouldn't trade it for the world! May you all be blessed, happy and healthy this holiday season and in the upcoming year.So
This Year's Christmas Decor
This is probably my last Christmas in my little student housing rental. Apartment hunting for my own place begins in the new year! I'm okay staying where I am until June when I graduate, but if something great comes up closer to downtown where I'm now working, I won't say no. The design direction of my new place is definitely going to be less feminine and more sophisticated. I can't wait for a
Christmas Card Holder
Now that Christmas time is in full effect, the Christmas cards are arriving in the mail. Instead of stacking them on a table this year, I want to display them in the open. They're too pretty not to put out for everyone to see. I hung and tacked a ribbon to the top of the entry closet door. I wanted to use clothes pins to attach the cards to the ribbon. Before I did that, I cut pieces of
DIY Ornament Garland
I always drape a faux evergreen garland across the family room mantle. This year, I was determined to dress it up with leftover ornaments. This was a super simple project.I started by laying my garland out. I wrapped a couple pieces of ribbon around it first. I decided to used gold, silver, and blue just like the tree. I first attached the silver ornaments. I attached the ornaments to the
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE HOUSE…AND MORE
I RECENTLY ORDERED THESE GOLD LEAF STICKS AND THREW THEM IN A POTTERY BARN VASE I ALREADY HAD…..INSTANT DRAMA-YAY!!!!!THEN I BOUGHT THESE BATTERY OPERATED LIGHTS AND FAKE MAGNOLIA AT SERENDIP IN NORFOLK….LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!I INHERITED RUDOLPH FROM THE WORKROOM YESTERDAY….AND HAD NO CLUE HOW MUCH I WOULD LOVE HIM!! ….. THE BAR SUITS HIM WELL!THE NATIVITY SCENE WAS GIVEN TO ME A FEW YEARS AGO-LOVE
Sarah and Tommy's Gingerbread House: Last Day to Bid
Hi Everyone! Today I'm sharing an exciting project that I worked on in collaboration with the talented Sarah Richardson and Tommy Smythe. The design duo partnered with the Children's Aid Foundation and Raghuram Addagada, executive chef at the Ritz-Carlton Toronto, to create one masterpiece of a gingerbread house! I sat down with Sarah and Tommy, who explained their design ideas in detail. I then
Gold, Silver, and Blue Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree is finally up and decorated. It took me a while since the kids wanted to help I was re-arranging as we went since my daughter puts ornaments wherever. My son was pulling off the ribbon as soon as I put it up. Out of frustration, the tree sat for a week with just ribbon.In years past I have done a gold and silver tree and a blue and silver tree. This year, I combined all
Rediscovering London and Paris, via Instagram
Are you on Instagram? No? Neither was I for years. I resisted it because, like many photographers, I was wary of the way Instagram owned the copyright to all the images posted on it. It was like blindly signing your rights over to an organisation you knew little about. Lately, however, I've become enamoured with the beauty of 'Insta' because it's a captivating insight into people's lives, only
November Month In Review
Yep, December is here. It seems like this year just moved by so quickly. Four more weeks and it'll be a new year.Here's what happened around here in November.I did a roundup of some holiday decor from Target.I shared some tips on saving money on home decor.I created a harvest sign for my entry table.I'm helping mom decorate her living room and shared some chair options.Some holiday gift guides
Instagramming London and Paris
Just a note to say that if you're on Instagram, I've been posting travel tips and inspiration from London and Paris this past week, at link here. Do have a look, or even follow: I would love to see you there!And if you're not on Instagram, you can still view images on this link – here or at http://instagram.com/janellemcculloch_authorI will still post on this blog so if you're a traditionalist (
Christmas Entry Table
One of the places I like to keep decorated for the season is the entry table. It's the first surface you see when walking in the house. As usual, I like to keep things simple. My son is grabbing everything now and I don't want to put too much out for fear that it will be taken down and broken. He has a thing for throwing anything round and resembles a ball.I kept my colors to blue and silver.
LUCY WILLIAMS AND ADDISON-WEEKS UNITE!
MY COUSIN (THE ADDISON OF ADDISON-WEEKS) RECENTLY ASKED IF I WANTED TO SHOW SOME PAINTINGS FOR HER ADDISON-WEEKS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE…..HECK YEAH!!!! COME SEE YALL!!!HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSEDECEMBER 4TH 10AM-9PMDECEMBER 5TH 10AM-5PM4108 HOLLY ROADVIRGINIA BEACHAND HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE PAINTINGS YOU WILL SEE!!AND THE JEWELRY (!!!)……
Easy Advent Calendar
I think one of the things my daughter loves about Christmas is the countdown. Of course Christmas morning gift opening is the best for her but getting there can be fun too. Today is December 1st and and I almost didn't make it. December came up quick.Here's what I used:card stock cuts into small squareswashi tapeSharpie markerTo make the numbers on each card, I traced some numbers I printed.To
Textiles and Fashion Discoveries of Paris and London, Part 1
When you travel for work, it's easy to get stuck into the same old 'the Milk Run' (as a friend calls it) of staying in same trusted hotels, strolling the same favourite routes and neighbourhoods; browsing at the same beloved boutiques; dining at the same restaurants (with friends who love them as much as you do) and even visiting the same museums. But every now and then it's important, I think,
Decorating For Renters
Hey folks! Are you still stuffed from all the turkey and dressing yesterday? I am. Too much good food in one place. We've got some leftovers so I plan on diving in for more.I want to talk about renters today. Many people are renters. I remember my first apartment with my husband. It was pretty plain and I wasn't into the design thing then. I think I could have cared less about what was on
Holiday Gift Guide: Black White and Gold
First and foremost, Happy Thanksgiving to all of my lovely U.S. readers! Today I am serving up the chicest gift guide around, made up of my favourite combination of black, white and gold. The lack of prominent colour means timeless charm and universal appeal for everyone on you hard-to-buy-for list. I'm especially loving this moto jacket, which is on sale right now for under $90! A new planner is
A Rug for the Living Room
I finally found a rug I love. The living room has been living without a rug for quite a while now. I was kept trying to convince myself it didn't need one because the room isn't used often. But every time I looked over, it just looked incomplete. It was lacking an extra detail. Target has been having some crazy sales lately and I caught the Veteran's Day sale where all rugs were on sale with
Holiday Gift Guides
It's that time...time for holiday shopping that is. Thanksgiving is next week. After that, it's full speed ahead. I know I can be a hard person to shop for. I never really know what I want, especially if you want me to make a list.I've come up with a guide for women like me who like nice things but can't always think of it at the moment. I'm more of a see it, want it kind of girl. All these
Going On a Chair Hunt
I have been helping my mom revamp her living room. She has decided on a new color palette of gray and red with a touch of black and white. I love the new direction she's going in. One of the things she needed in her space was an accent chair. We searched many stores looking for the right one. One thing I noticed that kept coming up in the search was black and white. It offered great
Creating A French Picking Garden (Easily)
As many gardeners know, gardening can be addictive. One minute you're happily potting up geraniums in a couple of blue and white planters you bought on discount in a closing-down sale; the next you're digging into your newly mown lawn to create a perennial flower bed. Then you begin to visit open gardens. And the more gardens you visit, the more addicted you become. Suddenly, you're out there at
DIY Harvest Sign
Thanksgiving is coming up next week. Yeah, next week. I'm not sure if I'm hosting yet, but I wanted something to display on my entry table. I like to keep things simple. I came across this sign in the Michael's dollar spot and thought I could do something with it so I bought it. The saying wasn't fitting for me but paint can change things.Once I got it home, I gave it a few coats of black
Cobalt Blue
I snagged 8 of these cobalt blue bowls (for free!) yesterday and I am just loving the rich hue. So sexy.It adds the perfect splash of colour to my bar cart :)Have you picked up any little finds lately that make you smile?xox
THE PERFECT HOLIDAY HOUSE 2014
the absolute ONLY thing i like about cold weather is thanksgiving, christmas, and college football. which had me scrambling on pinterest…. so i could put together the perfect holiday house….one thats great for parties…. warm and cozy…..and bits of red here and there.i love this pretend house....hope you like too!
Saving Money on Home Decor
Who doesn't like to save money when shopping? I love a good deal. There are so many ways on saving money when shopping. 1. Check both online and in store. Just because an item in on sale in store does not mean it's on sale online and vice versa.2. Shop the thrift store. Many people donate perfectly good items simply because they no longer have room for it in their home. Also, some Goodwills
From Vogue Living to Les Puces in Paris...
Here are a few lovely links and videos from around the world...DELICIOUS DETAILS IN NOVEMBER VOGUE LIVINGVogue Living's latest issue (Nov/Dec 2014) is full of blue-hued gorgeousness, plus Ilse Crawford, Oman, London, Italian perfumeries, and more. Website and Instagram here—link.REMEMBERING MR DE LA RENTACarolyne Roehm's deeply moving tribute to Oscar de la Renta, her employer, mentor and friend
Travel Insights: Where To Go in 2015
If you're planning your 2015 sojourns, here are some inspiration and ideas to get you started.The most important thing to remember when planning trips is that some destinations are seasonal, so pick your month with care.I was set to do some work in Cambodia in May, enroute to London and Paris, but was advised to avoid the monsoon period, and travel in December instead. The rains can also wash out
October Month in Review
It's November people! This year is really rolling on by. Next thing you know, it'll be Thanksgiving. It's officially fall around here. Actually, it feels more like winter. The lows are in the 30's this week and I don't like it one bit.Here's a recap on what happened around these parts last month.I didn't realize that Walmart had become so trendy in their home decor. Their new line from
Joyful Things: The New Test Everyone's Trying
Have you noticed how lots of people are doing these Gratitude Challenges? (Also known as the Seven Days of Positive tests.) Apparently they're like the 5:2 Diet for your mind. Every day you make a conscious effort to stop whining, ranting or being hyper-critical in order to retrain your brain to think pleasant, positive, meaningful and joyful thoughts instead. Even shooting an Instagram pic of
Holiday Decor
The other day I ran in Home Depot for a few things. The first things up in the front of the store were Christmas trees. I was thinking to myself, "It's a little early for Christmas decorations." Then I really thought about it. Christmas is less than two months away.I started the search for holiday decor. Of course my first place to shop is Target. They have some really great finds.1. Gold
My New Job - Sarah Richardson Design
Hi my loves. You may be wondering why I have been blogging so little lately, and I felt I owe you all an explanation. If you follow me on instagram, then you might have already picked up on this.I recently started a new {absolute dream} job, working as a junior designer for one of my biggest career influencers and role models, Sarah Richardson. I still can't believe it! When I first moved to this
Careers, Lives and Making It All Work
Friends and I have been chatting a lot recently about careers and jobs, and who has the most difficult, stressful and demanding lives. I always think family lawyers have a tough job. Teachers too. And working mothers probably have the most demanding lives of all.Recently I was touched to be asked to give a speech alongside an extraordinary journalist called Sara James. Sara is a former foreign
SYLVAN: THE LATEST!
YOU MAY REMEMBER A COUPLE OF OTHER SPACES WE HAVE WORKED ON IN THIS AMAZING WATERFRONT HOME........WE STARTED IN THEIR DAUGHTER'S BEDROOM AND THEN THE GUEST ROOM....LATELY, WE'VE BEEN TRANSFORMING THE MASTER BEDROOM AND FOYER.SO COME ON IN!!!AND DON'T MISS THE NEW WALLPAPER IN THE HALL!!GRAY WAS MY CLIENT'S DESIRED COLOR PALETTE. SHE FOUND A BEAUTIFUL RUG THAT PROVIDED THE PERFECT GRAYS TO WORK
Get The Look: Treasure Coast Living Room
I posted this picture last week on Facebook. I loved the look so much, I had to re-create it.The home comes from the 2014 Parade of Homes in Palm City, FL. I love the neutral tones with the added bright yellows. The painting is awesome too. Yellow is a color I don't use often but it looks great in this room. It's so bright and right next to the pool. Yes, please! Here's my interpretation
Lighting at World Market
World Market is one of those stores I like to go in because they have such a diverse assortment of items. They feature items from all over the world. Right now World Market has 25% off all lighting, but the sale ends today.I've always liked the orb chandeliers. This metal one is a steal at $112. It's dark finish would be great in an industrial space.This Capiz Pendant would be great over a
Garden & Design Books For Your Christmas Wish List
ANOUSKA HEMPELThe pub date for this much-anticipated book about one of London's most legendary style icons keeps changing, but latest news has its release date as Dec 1. The book, which is certain to be as flamboyant as its subject matter, is both celebration of Anouska Hempel's (Lady Weinberg's) design achievements and an intimate insight into her world and life. The book is divided into
BEFORE AND AFTER: GLENEAGLES LIVING ROOM...SNEAK PEAK
THIS FAMILY WAS DUE FOR A CHANGE. THEY DECIDED TO KNOCK OUT ANOTHER DOORWAY INTO THE NEIGHBORING SPACE, BUT ALSO WANTED TO TOALLY REVAMP THE ROOM.THE WANTS?A LIGHTER AND BRIGHTER MORE COMFORTABLE SPACE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY TO HANG OUT IN…..BUT MAINTAIN THE LOOK OF A FORMAL LIVING ROOM WITH A CONTEMPORARY TWIST.WE HAD SOME EXISTING ANTIQUES…. AND THEY BOUGHT A FANTASTIC ENORMOUS PAINTINGTO GO
Friday Five
Happy Friday!I wanted to share some things around the web that have sparked my interest this week.Charlotte shared how she made DIY marble paper and framed them. I love it. So easy and looks good on the wall. I want to try this.I came across this beautiful blue dining room. I love the richness of this color. I was thinking about going dark in the dining room and this got my gears turning.
Floor Poufs
Sometimes you don't want to paint the walls a crazy color or buy a bright sofa. So to inject color into a room, the best thing is to buy colorful accessories. A great accessory to have in any home is a floor pouf. They provide comfort as well as being an accent piece. They also can be extra seating. There are a variety of shapes, colors, textures, and patterns out there. 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 /
BEFORE AND AFTER: NORTH SHORE FOYER
THIS FOYER DIDN'T QUITE MEASURE UP TO THE SOPHISTICATED STYLE OF THE HOUSE. THE HOMEOWNER HATED THE WALL COLOR AND REALLY WANTED A CHANGE.....MY THOUGHTS? WE NEEDED A LARGE CHEST TO ANCHOR THE WALL....WE NEEDED A BIG MIRROR AND LAMP TO BRIGHTEN UP THE SPACE. AND WE NEEDED UPHOLSTERY TO SOFTEN IT UP AND GIVE US SOME COLOR......OTHER WALL BEFORE....AND AFTER! WHO CARES ABOUT SYMMETRY AS LONG AS
Pretty Rugs (and whats underneath them)
Okay guys, today I'm going to talk about a not-so-glamorous decor tip that I think is worth mentioning, and that's the importance of a good quality underpad for your rug.You all know about my love for my gorgeous hand-woven rug which I scored from an estate sale:Well, the only problem that I was running into with it was keeping it in place. Most high-quality rugs have no added backing, meaning
The Quiet Return of Bold Colour...
Giambattista Valli.(Via Giambattista Valli's Instagram)Maison Valentino.Manuel Canovas, Paris.Bhangarh, India.Giambattista Valli. (Via Giambattista Valli's Instagram)Giambattista Valli. (Via Giambattista Valli's Instagram)Anna Spiro.(Published this month.)Sujan Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur.(Opening next month.)Sujan Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur.(Opening next month.)Sujan Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur.(Opening
Model Home Inspiration
The home I'm about to show you is beautiful! It's located in Sedona, Arizona. I joke with my husband about moving to Arizona. It's always warm there. I know winter is upon us soon and I don't do cold weather very well.Here's the family room. I love how the doors fold back to open up to the connected patio. It's one big room. I also like the floor to ceiling stone fireplace. We've talked
Paint Colors in Our Home
I've wanted to do this post for a while now. I thought it would be fun to have one post with all the paint colors I've used in the house. When we started painting, I didn't have a plan for all the colors to go together, I went with what felt right in the rooms. It looks like gray is becoming a favorite around here. The main floor is this color. It was the first color chosen in this house. I
Copper in the Kitchen (& My Thrifted Copper Finds)
Rumour has is that after a few years of brass bliss, copper is the new trending metal. While I will forever love brass and gold, I've always been a fan of copper as well. It's warm, rosey tone feels so rich and somehow nostalgic. Maybe that is owing to the adorable little set of copper measuring cups that my mother has had hanging in her kitchen for as long as I can remember. For me, copper is a
BEFORE AND AFTER: GHENT MASTER SUITE
42 YEARS IN A HOUSE REQUIRES A GREAT EXCUSE TO REMODEL!!!THIS MASTER SUITE WAS BROKEN UP INTO 3 SPACES THAT SEEMED DISJOINTED.WE NEEDED A PLAN TO BRING THEM TOGETHER WITHOUT KNOCKING DOWN WALLS.HERE ARE SOME BEFORE SHOTS.....MY CLIENT WAS SICK AND TIRED OF THE HEAVY CORNICES, BUT WANTED TO MAINTAIN THE FUNCTION OF THE SHEERS AND PANELS.....AND WANTED SEA FOAM GREEN (YAY!)TIME TO GET TO WORK!THE
Round Mirrors
These mirrors are everywhere. Some things you think are a trend but they seem to be holding their own. They make the perfect focal point over a bed, sofa, or console table. Round mirrors also give an unexpected element to a room full of right angles, especially in a modern space.1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 This mirror is great over the dresser. source I love this wall of mirrors. Not to
Fall Decorating Ideas
Since fall has arrived, I wanted to share some of my past fall decorating projects.First up is this year's simple fall table. I used what I already had around the house.Using leftover fabric, I made fabric pumpkins. Here' s a simple fall centerpiece. Last year's fall monogram wreath which I am using again this year. My fall table from a few year's ago.Painted white and blue pumpkins from the
Small Changes to Transition Your Decor to Fall
Fall is my favourite time of year. There is something about the cozy sweaters, dark nail polish, smell of leaves, and pumpkin anything that warms my heart as the days get chillier. While my decor is packed with colour during the spring and summer, I like to remove some of the pastel hues and stick to a crisper palette in my space during the colder months. The key to this is editing. A quick edit
Simple Fall Table
Fall has slowly made its way here. It was 80 degrees last week and it hit the low 40's over the weekend. I like this time of year when the leaves are changing colors and the air is more crisp and not so hot. I don't mind being outside because I know I won't break a sweat. I'm more of an AC girl in the summer.Fall is one of those seasons I don't really decorate for. I like to keep things
GARAGE CONVERTED GAME ROOM
THIS IS THE HOUSE WHERE EVERYONE LOVES TO GATHER!MY CLIENT NEEDED VERY KID FRIENDLY DECOR KNOWING THIS ROOM WOULD GET LOTS OF USE!WE CHOSE A SLIPCOVERED SOFA-EASY TO CLEAN, A FORGIVING FABRIC FOR THE SWIVEL CHAIRS, A VERY FORGIVING AREA RUG, AND DISTRESSED FURNISHINGS THAT CAN HANDLE THE WEAR AND TEAR. THE WINDOW TREATMENTS ARE AN AMAZING PRINTED LINEN...A GREAT POP OF COLOR THAT THIS LARGE SPACE
Custom Watercolour Commission: The Fashion Cookbook
I was recently contacted by Patricia and Hannah, the adorably chic founders of The Fashion Cookbook, to help design a watercolour image for their site redesign. The pair wanted me to create something inspired by this image from their home page, with a champagne glass pouring a necklace into a glass filled with rings. With this inspiration in mind, I painted them this charming little watercolor
September Month In Review
Hello there good people! How's fall treating you? It's been cool here in the mornings but still around 80 in the afternoons. We're expected to hit a low of 45 this weekend. I'm ready but I'm not if this makes sense. I love my flip flops but I love boots too.Here's what happened around here in September. I took a shot at re-creating a West Elm Inspired Side Table.I found a new place with some
News, Shoes, Dior and More...
PARIS: A WORK IN PROGRESSAs mentioned briefly in previous posts (ever so briefly, for fear of boring people), I've been busy writing and designing the next Paris book, due to to be published by my lovely publishers MUP in April 2015. My apologies if you've emailed and I've not replied: the book is now behind deadline and that's never professional, so it's become a priority. But it's coming along
Stylish and Affordable at Walmart
I was completely shocked when I saw a new home decor line on the Walmart website the other day. When did Walmart get so trendy and on point? I never think to check there for home decor. The patterns and colors caught my eye so I had to check it out.This new line from designer Angelo Surmelis is called Angelo Home. His tag line is "Big Style for Small Spaces". He's bringing affordable style
Hometalk Feature
Some of you may have heard of Hometalk. It's a website where homeowners and professionals alike can go and share their home adventures and ask for advice. I've been on there for years and it's fun to see the projects that homeowners complete. You can browse through hundreds of photos to get inspiration and tips and upload your own project. You can even come here to connect with a professional
BEFORE AND AFTER: PINEWOOD LIVING ROOM
you may remember this sneak peak blog......http://lucywilliamsinteriordesign.blogspot.com/2013/10/before-and-after-pinewood-living-room.htmlwell, the living room is complete!here's is the before.....AND THE AFTER!
Remembering Deborah Mitford...
Those who love literature – and literary families – will be greatly saddened to hear of the death of Deborah, Dowager Duchess of Devonshire (also known as Deborah Mitford), who passed away on Wednesday morning, aged 94.The youngest daughter of the Mitford siblings – arguably the defining family of their time – Deborah may have, in her early years, been overshadowed by a highly creative, highly
Weekend Sales
One of the things I like to do on the weekends is go shopping. Whether it be in store or online. Here are a few sales going on this weekend.RUGS USA is having a major sale! Up to 80% off all rugs. They have such a huge selection. You are very likely to find something you like. I love this trellis one. Would love it for the living room but I realize it looks so similar to the one in the
New Girl's Desk
I guess it's time to show you the desk I picked out for my daughter. I wanted something small and functional while still being cute and easy on the pockets.We ended up with this combination from Ikea. It's the white Linnmon top with the silver Adils legs. It's so simple and fits perfectly in the space in front of her window. I didn't want to spend a ton of money on this piece because I knew
A Beautiful Story of a Lost Garden
I want to tell you a story about a garden. It's a good one. You'll like it.In June, I was visiting some of the rose gardens of southern England when I heard about a garden called Heligan. Or more accurately The Lost Gardens of Heligan {LINK HERE}. Some of you may have heard of this place, just as I had, but I didn't realise the depth of sorrow that's buried in its flower beds. Heligan is a garden
GEORGETOWN HOUSE
I LOVE GEORGETOWN...ESPECIALLY THIS TIME OF YEAR!AMAZING HOUSES, FANTASTIC SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS, AND A GREAT PLACE TO JUST WALK AROUND......COME INSIDE MY IMAGINARY DREAM HOUSE IN D.C.!WENDY SCHWARTZNATE BURKUSJEFFREY BILHUBERSUZANNE KASLERHOUSE OF MARLOWE`and if you are lucky-you may see these crazies… (haha)….i couldn't help myself.
In my Sketchbook: Living Room by Sarah Richardson Design
As you might have guessed from my post about 3D CAD rendering, I'm at a point in design school where we have moved away from hand rendering and into digital rendering. I love hand rendering, however, and in an effort not to lose this capability, I have started sketching some of my favourite rooms designed by some of my favourite designers.Today's room was designed by Sarah Richardson and was
Get The Look: Basement Family Room
I know we all want spaces where we can lounge with the family. This basement family room is great for that. There's a large sofa for watching movies and a table area for eating or doing crafts. I love the pop of color in the accent wall.sourcesectional: Overstockchandelier: Targettv cabinet: Ikeaottoman : Wayfairwall shelf: Ikeaarm chair: Targetshelving unit: Ikeadining table: Ikeabench:
Glamour In Manhattan: Travel Insights
Unlike Paris, New York doesn’t seduce you with its Haussmanian sophistication or its seductive wardrobes and ways. It doesn’t have the history, dignity and grace of London, nor the sunny glamour of Sydney—although it does have its own unique sheen. What it does have is confidence and unending energy, and with that drive and determination New Yorkers have built one of the most thrilling and
Personalized Pencils
For a long time I've wanted cute, personalized pencils. My initial idea was to get a set with a cute/quirky saying on them, but when I saw that A Blissful Nest was having a sale on completely customized pencils, I knew that I wanted to get some branded with the name of this beloved blog. I decided to go with two sets, one in white and one in pink. They look so cute in their jar and I've given my
Gardens, Glamour & Getaways of the US East Coast
You know how some places in the world sneak under your skin and into your heart and never really leave? Well, I have a few of those, and particularly in the US. There are some corners of America that are so startlingly beautiful – so unexpectedly beguiling – you can understand why some Americans don't feel the need to travel far.In fact, when my two kind-hearted but slightly bossy business
Hello Sunshine + Printable
Since my daughter got a desk I've been thinking of ways I can style it without taking over a space that is supposed to be hers. Also the cutesy things I see for a desk I know will end up on the floor. I made a simple printable for her desk and stuck it in an Ikea frame. I want her desk to be a happy place to sit and be creative and I thought this was the perfect little touch. Here is the
Travel Tips, Part 5: Hotels, Flights, Luggage
I've often wondered how middle-class people (such as my parents) are able to afford to go overseas every year to places as exotic and as far-flung as Patagonia, Alaska, the Arctic Circle, the Galapagos, Africa, and remotest parts of Asia?Answer: They're not only frugal; they're also savvy travellers. Here are some tips and tricks to travelling in frugal glamorous style on a great budget.ONE
Orb Chandeliers
One light I've really had my eye on is the orb chandelier. I love the curved lines and simple elegance of them. Ideally, I would love to put one in our two story foyer.1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6They just look so good in a space!source source source source sourceDo you love orb chandeliers as much as I do? You're reading Orb Chandeliers by Andrea, originally posted on Decorating Cents. If
Hospitality Project: Boutique Hotel 3D Rendering
It's been a little while since I've shared a school project with you. This term I did one that I'm very excited about, so I thought I would post about it! Our studio this term was hospitality, and as groups we designed a 7 storey boutique hotel. As a boutique hotel, we could go a little more themed compared to most projects, and my team decided to create the atmosphere of an old magic show with
Painted Ceilings
After seeing this painted ceiling last week, I was amazed how much drama it gave the room.It got me thinking how I never think about painting the ceiling. It technically is a wall and can be painted.I like the dark blue in this dining room.I love the added pink to this girl's room.The pale blue ceiling in this sunroom is calm and looks like the sky.I really like the painted ceiling in this
New at CB2
CB2 is on of those stores that I like to window shop. They carry pretty modern home decor and they are just pretty to look at. Some of their items can be affordable but some of them are more than I would like to spend. I have a store nearby I can go to but if I'm shopping online they have flat rate shipping for $4.95.How fun is this bed set? I like the pops of red in this great burst
BEFORE AND AFTER: BALDWIN MASTER BATH
IF YOU LIKE STORAGE, YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS MASTER BATH!BASICALLY, THE BATHROOM WAS STUCK IN THE 70'S AND DIVIDED UP INTO 3 ROOMS....HERE ARE THE "BEFORE" SHOTS.....AND THE "AFTERS"….I LOVE SCONCES ON TOP OF THE MIRROR-TWICE THE LIGHT!WHO'D HAVE KNOWN MAN MADE QUARTZ COMPOSITE CAN LOOK JUST LIKE MARBLE?NORFOLK'S OWN ABSOLUTE STONE, CONVENIENTLY JUST DOWN THE STREET, HELPED US FIND THIS "FIND
My First Vlog: Top Five Things to Bring to a Blogging Conference
Well, well, well, look who finally held up one of their blog goals that they've had for the past TWO years. It's me! Coming at you live through video. I'm so glad that I was finally able to put a quick video together. I think it's so fun seeing people on camera, and isn't it weird to hear someone's voice after you've been following their blog for a long time? I suppose I was inspired to tackle
Napkin Pillow Covers
I've been on the search for new pillow covers to refresh the family room. I showed you some pillows last week and I've saved some on Etsy. None of them I've pulled the trigger on. Last week I made a run in Target and came across these clearance napkins. There are four in a pack and are 20 inches squared. I knew I could make pillow covers from them. They were the color I was looking for and
GLENCOVE MASTER BEDROOM: SNEAK PEAK
i LOVE watching a room evolve.this one will be finished next month…..but we have a few of the things that just got installed today!!here's a sneak peak….AND…………..a PREVIEW of next week's blog…..BALDWIN master bath almost done!
Society 6 Pillows
I'm on the search for new pillows and came upon Society 6. Where have I been? How could I not have known? They have some awesome pillows and their prices aren't bad either. I had to share a few with you.1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12Have a great weekend! You're reading Society 6 Pillows by Andrea, originally posted on Decorating Cents. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure
West Elm Inspired Side Table
I like to look at the West Elm website and catalogs and drool over the nice tables and accessories. I like pretty things but don't think I should pay a fortune for them. I do have things from West Elm but they were on sale and I never pay full price.You may remember this red side table from the living room. I've always like the shape of it but the love affair I had with it was fading. I was
August Month In Review
Yep, August has come to a close. That means summer is officially ending soon.Here's what happened around here this month. I shared a round up of sputnik chandeliers.A lot of new items at Target. They are really staying trendy in the home decor department.A reader of my blog shared her kitchen inspired by my own.We had a guest port from Katie sharing some ways to organize the kitchen.I put
Life, Gardens, And Everything Inspirational In-between
Ever since I returned from England in June, life has been very Down The Rabbit Hole-ish. Very Lewis Carroll meets C.S. Lewis, with a surprising amount of strangeness (a very Carollesque word).Sometimes our life does veer into the Crazy Lane – just like everyone else's – simply from juggling too much work, travelling too many miles, or meeting the demands of too many people (because nobody ever
Tiny Houses
A few months back my husband made a comment about down sizing. Huh? What? It's funny he said this because I'm always joking about packing up and moving into a bigger house. You can imagine the confused look on my face when he said this though. Sure, we did buy a house a little larger than we really needed but we figured we could grow into it. At the time we purchased it, we only had one kid
A Center Hall Table
I have been in a house with a foyer grand enough to host a center table once in my life. I was too young to appreciate what exactly this grand foyer was meant to be. I remember thinking 'that's a weird place to put a small dining table'. Ah how times have changed. Now a center hall table is one of my all time favourite looks. I may never have the room to make this happen, but a girl can dream. It
Get The Look: Modern Traditional Living Room
I love seeing pretty spaces and like most people, I want to know where the pieces in the room come from. I love the grays and yellows in this living room. The room is modern but still very classic. It's a space I wouldn't mind kicking my feet up in. sourceI've found some affordable decor items you could use to re-create this room.Gray Geometric Pillow Yellow Trellis Pillow Ikat Pillow Yellow
Easy DIY Clipboard
I've been wanting to do this project for a while but never got around to it. I can't believe it took me so long because it's super easy. This is a fun and colorful clipboard that you can customize to any style with scrapbook paper.I picked up a clipboard from the Dollar Tree. I also used: scrapbook papermod podgefoam brushscissorsI first traced the outside of the clipboard and cut it out. I
Coffee Table Tuesdays with Mimosa & Monroe
This Tuesday we have one half of the talented duo in charge of Mimosa & Monroe here with us sharing her fabulous coffee table. I just adore these ladies' style, so palm beach chic/Hollywood regency glam. Please welcome Anna, curator of the popular and colorful instagram feed 'Notes from Monroe'. Anna is coming to us all the way from Brisbane, Australia. Her home has been featured in Adore
AT HOME: REARRANGING & NEW STUFF…..
i started rearranging pillows this past weekend…..and decided i liked these pillows i stole from my family room for my living room…..and decided to steal the lamp too!omg…why didn't i do this before???then i realized i needed pillows for the family room……I'm kinda thinking I LOVE this!….fun things are in the works…..stay tuned!!on another note…..i found a new coral wholesaler and decided to place
Gardens in Green and White
We've had a reflective week here with the passing of someone close to us, so to counteract that we've spent a lot of time in our garden, where the sight of fresh green shoots and new spring growth (Australia's transitioning from winter to spring) has eased the heartache. (Fertiliser is often just as good for the soul as it is for the soil.) Fortunately, our new gardener started work this week, so
Modern Leather Sofas
I used to not like leather sofas, a lot. They stick to your legs and I could always see myself puncturing the upholstery. Well, leather sofas have some a long way. I especially like those with modern lines and straight lines and legs. I've also learned that leather is durable, can last forever, and cleans easily. I prefer brown and gray leather sofas opposed to black ones but that's me.1 / 2
Fun Play Room
I love looking at play rooms. I tell my husband all the time how we need one. Of course he doesn't agree. I just think it would be nice to have a dedicated space for all the toys. Here's a fun and colorful play room for the kiddies. I've chosen bright pieces that provide function, like the table and chairs for art activities or puzzles and the wardrobe for storage (all from Ikea). The
Secrets of Paris, Part 3
For those who are heading to Paris soon and planning their itinerary, here are a few ideas and suggestions for memorable places to visit. I'm currently working on the next Paris guide and have included these in the 24-hours-in-Paris section. They're a little different from the usual Seine-to-St.Germain-to-Eiffel Tower stroll. I don't know about you but I like getting off the beaten (Parisian)
TRANSITIONING: MY BOYS BEDROOMS
sad summer is almost over, BUT PSYCHED MY KIDS START SCHOOL IN 2 DAYS!!!my oldest decided he needed his own room since he is starting middle school.....so, H is taking over the old play room.....here is where H used to sleep-but now its all for little bro! so we made a few little changes for R.....(ps-my camera isn't working-these pictures are horrible!!!) beds, bedding, arrangement all stayed
Meet my Boyfriend: Marshall Jacklin
As some of you know, I have been dating the kindest, most thoughtful man for the past 10 months or so, who I mysteriously refer to as 'M'. Well today, the mystery is over as I'm so proud to introduce him to the world. His name is Marshall Jacklin, and not only is he the best boyfriend, he is also a talented musician who sings, plays piano, and writes the most incredible of songs.For the past year
Board and Batten in the Back Entry
The back entry from the garage has been a sore spot for me for the last year. The kids' back packs always ended up here. That's fine but they were always hanging on the closet door knobs. I knew at some point I would have to do something about it. The door knobs would only take so much. I told my husband about my plan and he was on board. Using the same technique as the front entry board and
Friday Five
Happy Friday ya'll!!With my little man running free, it's been hard to get into the groove of home projects. Just when I put him down for a nap, he awakens. He doesn't stay asleep long enough to get anything done. 1) This rug has me inspired to do a little painting this weekend.source2) My baby girl starts up dance again which means getting up on Saturday mornings. I love seeing her dance.
My Sequin Camera Strap: Sam and Kate Designs
Today I'm taking some time to highlight one of my newest favourite accessories, as seen in my home tour on The Everygirl. I am completely smitten with my sequin camera strap from Sam and Kate Design. I went with the silver sequins and silver tulle combo, which I adore, but the girls have recently launched a whole bunch of other fab colour combos! It makes taking pictures for the blog way more fun
Paris: A Thank You
It occurred to me tonight that not everybody is as enamoured with New York as our family is. (I would happily move to Manhattan tomorrow if it were not for my partner's job, our little dogs, our families, our mortgage, our friends and lives, and the other logistical difficulties.)New York certainly isn't for everyone (and probably not for poor authors). So I thought I'd extend the book offer from
Gray and Yellow Bedroom
I think gray is one of those colors that looks good with any color paired with it. Gray and yellow is a popular color combo. Since our master bedroom isn't done yet, I decided to put together a bedroom with these two colors.duvet / headboard / trellis pillow / rug / bench / arm chair / geometric pillow / side table / dresser / chandelier / mirror / vase / decorative boxMy room started with
DILLWYN ROAD PROGRESSION: PART 2
I LOVE COMING BACK TO THIS HOUSE. WHY?THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING DIFFERENT AND FUN TO LOOK AT!YOU MAY REMEMBER THE LAST TIME WE WERE HERE….THIS TIME, WE HAD A FEW MORE FURNITURE PIECES COME IN…..BUT LOOK AT THE BEAUTIFUL EXTERIOR! MY CLIENT HAS SUCH AMAZING TASTE-SHE ADDED THE ADORABLE FRONT PORCH OVERHANG AND NEW SIDING AND PAINT……LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!HERE'S WHAT IS LOOKED LIKE A FEW MONTHS AGO…WHO
Lilac and Gold
I was flipping through the September issue of Style at Home Magazine and was stopped in my tracks by a beautiful lilac and gold bathroom. I know not everyone is feeling this year's 'Radiant Orchid', but this subdued version of the hue paired with both aged and polished brass is really speaking to me. I was even more delighted when I realized it was done by local Toronto designer, Tara Fingold,