ROOM OF THE WEEK 10.28

It's officially that time of year where I begin to dream of heavenly dining rooms to host cozy dinner parties....

Something like this room by Joe Nahem, perhaps? I love that it's deceptively simplistic: a table, some chairs, drapes - nothing that appears too complicated - and yet the detail of each layer is perfectly thought out. The scale of the wallpaper pattern and how it compliments the tile in the fireplace. The way the woods ground the space even without a rug (which would take away from the gorgeous table base anyway), and the combination of that soft olive grey with peachy drapes. And plants, of course! The most simple of decor, but what a statement they make here bringing life to this quiet little space.


A bit traditional? Yes. But welcoming in the way your stylish grandmother would be. Which makes me love it even more!

*photo via elle decor

ROOM OF THE WEEK: 7.22

Just yesterday I had a reader email me asking if I could do a post on my favorite dining rooms. I absolutely adore decorating dining areas because it mixes interior design with my other favorite subject - entertaining! So, while I sort through my files and pull out the best of the best, I thought we could at least start with this...

A bit aspirational, but oh so inspiring, no? The way designer Krista Ewart balanced the large scale table with a full wall mirror and that centerpiece of a painting is so lovely! And, despite some of these heavy features, the space stays open and light by neutralizing some of the accessories that could have been distracting (the all white chandelier and figurines on the sideboard). Using the aqua throughout in different textiles ties everything together perfectly. I'm especially loving the addition of the bench to the table which brings down the formality of the antique style pieces. What do you think, dear readers? Will this one be added to your list of favorites?

Room of the Week 9.17

Last Thursday's room was pure minimalism. So, this week, I'm going the exact opposite direction with this living area captured by James Merrell...
I'm usually not this traditional in my taste. Ok, I'm never this traditional in my taste. And you better believe that the first thing to go in this room would be that rug. Yuck. But the COLORS!!! Swap out a few items (like that floor lamp), clear off some spaces (that coffee table isn't looking very useful, is it?), add a few modern details, and I could easily settle in here to enjoy the palette...
As well as that pile of books on the table nearby! Oh, and, hello fantastic chandelier and mismatched art. You fit in quite nicely as well.

Room of the Week 5.28

I discovered this gorgeous home via the pages of Western Interiors, which introduced me to designer Renea Abbott whose explanation of her design philosophy had me jumping with agreement! "I always like to throw in a little bling, a teeny bit of sparkle, to an otherwise clean and contemporary spacee.”

Yes, yes, yes, Renea!! You know that's my philosophy. A touch of glam factor for every room - usually in the form of beautiful chandeliers or gilded mirrors. So, of course I had to use this space for today's Room of the Week.
The first hint of glam is the high back chair with its gilded arms, and those luxurious pillows as well! The candlesticks also add a touch of drama, and the bench in front of the fireplace is fantastic. But, let's not stop at one room - there's so much more gorgeousness to explore in this Houston home...
Why hello ginormous chanel bag and gilded chandelier and mirror and table. You must have known I was coming for a visit! (Yes, even I can admit, that's a bit much.) I do really love the clean hallway and that gorgeous little settee though. A perfect mix of modern and traditional, with the wood floors providing a touch of warmth.
Ahhhh...the bedroom. The far chest and table lamps are a bit traditional antique for my taste, but I would gladly take the rest.. especially the ceiling which keeps the room from feeling to stuffy. Again, loving the gilded gold in the chair. In fact, I love all the variety of seating options in here - not for actual conversation of course, but for preventing me from throwing my clothing all over the floor! And the chaise to lounge on by the fire. Lovely!

Modern Tapestries

Tapestries seem so... well, grandma. And I don't exactly love them in abundance. But, I do love them like this...

image via skona hem

Mixing modern wallpaper and pillows with midcentury accent furnishings keeps this room from aging itself. But, the tapestry bedspread combined with the print rug brings in a cozy, lived-in feel, which is what I really love about them.

Beautiful styling from Patrina Tinslay and the pages of toast evoke a fall boudoir.

Dark and dreamy from Lyell and Hint Magazine.

Room of the Week 4.24

I'm a big fan of juxtaposition and this formal dining room from Domino does an incredible job.



Normally, having the tall cabinet on one side of the room would not fly with me (I need more symmetry), but the large window and heaviness of the settee lend a bit of balance, and the fact the top of the cabinet is mirrored also helps the illusion. I love the mix of blues used in the room, as well as textures and styles. The heavy formal velvet seating contrast with the sisal rug and chinoiserie style bench. And how much do you adore those billowy curtains? They remind me of these. The unique bust and the beautiful chandelier complete the room.

To be honest, I think the bench looks a little out of place (like maybe it should have been a creamy white or silver leaf instead of a bright white?). And, if it were up to me, I would have much rather had a nice worn in farm style table instead of the more formal one. But, overall I can definitely appreciate the style they've got going on here.