This is Ridiculous... and I Love It.

Ok, seriously... who needs a hammock in their home? Better yet, who needs an extremely luxe fur-lined hammock in their home? And still... I just want to jump into it, curl up with a good book, and take a nap.



Available at Vivre, the hammock is lined in coyote fur (i know, i know, real fur! bad!) and I can just picture it in a lofty home with rich wood walls like this one...



(PS - Love the zebra chairs, even though I'm sick of seeing zebra everywhere, not to mention the architecture of the room itself!)

My First Official Blog Rant...

The NY Times recently published this article about how the accessibility of design has become a challenge and annoyance to designers, editors, and bloggers alike. It's so hard to be original when once something gets picked up a few times in a decor mag (and then a blog... and then all over the internet), it automatically becomes commonplace. With large corporations making popular designs available to the masses (which I am not necessarily complaining about!), it does make certain pieces less special. Why would you go spend a few hundred when you can drop $39.95 for a knock off?



Affordable Ikat from Z Gallerie, and not-as-affordable from Madeline Weinrib

Here's how I see it - there are certain trends you know you're going to get sick of (bubble skirts, ikat pillows, whatever), and you go to Forever 21, H&M, Urban Outfitters, or Target and you drop a minimal amount on it because in a few months you're going to be over it anyway. But, there are those pieces that REQUIRE investment. A nice pair of jeans, a tailored suit, THE purse. A gorgeous lacquered console, luxurious linens, THE dining room table. It makes all of our livse better and worse at the same time. There were trends this year I was so sick of before I even liked them (wall decals! skulls! sorry, but, ugh!), and there are trends I am still in love with (admit it, you'd take a Madeleine Weinrib pillow or zebra rug right now).



Ok, I'm ranting a bit here (wow, I believe this is a coco+kelley first!), but I suppose that there are good things that come out of the accessibility of trends - it keeps me on budget, and keeps all of us us on our toes - always looking out for the next big thing, discovering boutique treasures or true talents, and usually returning to (or at least incorporating) the classics. But it's time to get creative and trust our instincts, so here's my first official new year's resolution. I WILL NOT LET MY BLOG GET BORING. And by boring I mean, I will try very hard not to simply copy posts from other's posts, or reiterate what has already been said a million times on the pages of major design magazines. If it moves me, I will post it. If it's a stupid trend that I cannot stand, you will never see it on my blog. I am not claiming to be THAT original (I'm a sucker for Kelley Wearstler too... ) but I believe in creating and promoting designs with personality. I think most of us out here in blog-world do the same. And what's great is that we really ARE all different - we all have our little loves and obsessions, and it's so fun to learn about those. But yes, nearly all of us has probably posted on zebra-print rugs and hermes blankets and skull patterns and deer heads and every other ridiculous trend because, let's face it, it's hard NOT to!

So, now I ask you, as we look back at the year, what trends did you hate, and what do you hope will be sticking around for a while? I'm interested to see what designs really spoke to you this year, and which ones fell short... And thanks for letting me rant :)

Room of the Week 10.2

Call me crazy but...


Going back to my love for glamorous design, I really love the risk designer Robin Bell took with the zebra wallpaper in this room. Take it away, and all your left with is a well designed and somewhat traditional room. But by adding it, she created modern and unique (and yes, a little over-the-top) space with great pattern and texture. I'm also looooving that coffee table, and the use of the shelving above the teeny bar cart to create extra storage for glasses and shakers. If this was a small corner of my home, I think I could actually live with it! What about you?

ROOM OF THE WEEK: STUDIO 5 OFFICE TOUR

If you follow me on Twitter, then you may have heard through a little birdie that coco+kelley may be getting a little office space this spring! Details are still being worked out, but my designer brain is already dreaming up the decor. So, in honor of that mini celebration, I thought I'd share one very inspiring office + showroom space with you all today!

My good friend Jessica deGuardiola, founder of 5s PR in Boston, sent me these snaps of her latest addition - a showroom that serves as a full service fashion + lifestyle space for her clients! 

When I asked Jess what gave her the inspiration and motivation to open this space, here's what she said, "We represent a women's boutique in Atlanta (Vetted) in which I assist on a lot of the buying trips for. With each trip, I realized more and more the fact that Boston was missing a legitimate showroom for industry-insiders to have access to independent, talented designers predominately represented in NYC. There's so much talent here in Boston, but we were lacking an "incubator" so to speak, that gave designers a platform to showcase their work."

"The second reason that came into play was more of a natural progression... as a fashion + lifestyle publicist, I have large quantities of samples, sometimes entire collections, at my disposal in my office. It seemed only natural to parlay that into an avenue that would allow me to both publicize and showcase my client's work under one roof."


"It was really important to me to create a space that was warm and inviting. We (my visual director and I) wanted Studio 5 to not only beautifully showcase each designer's collection, but also encourage buyers and media to want to spend time in it. The overall look we were going for was "Eclectic Modern" which we tried to convey with combining modern pieces like the acrylic ghost chairs with more "boho" pieces like my vintage zebra hide."

Jess, you did an amazing job, and the space has certainly inspired this girl! I love the mix of rustic and vintage in the fresh loft setting, and I certainly wish Seattle had more inspired spaces like this for showrooms! I can't wait to start plotting my own little space...

Wallpaper In The Entry

The more I think about it the more I'm convinced...
Next to a Powder Room, the best place to add wallpaper is definitely the entryway. I love that it's a little surprise you see on the way out instead of on the way in... such a fun touch!
Preferably in a graphic black and white print, of course. (Zebra runner, very optional, but I do like the contrasted stairs.)

*images via skona hem, unknown

Room of the Week 2.5

I've never been to Mexico. I think I'd like to go there. Now.

I just stumbled up on this unexpectedly modern and cool design created by Kara Mann yesterday on Apartment Therapy, and knew it had to be my Room of the Week. For the last two months I've been whining about how all I want to do is hop a flight to Mexico, and I'm pretty sure if I went, this is where I'd like to be!

Every bit of this room is incredibly appealing to me. The contrast of a dramatic new modern wing chair with the natural texture of the fireplace. The classic and fresh white palette infused with bursts of Suzani patterned color. The simplicity of the decor.

And let's just declare it right now. The Moroccan Beni Ourain style rugs have officially replaced the Zebra trend. (Pssst - you know you can get some gorgeous originals from Maryam, right?)

Extra bonus. Check out that loungy area! I could curl up there for a little midday nap in the sunshine and be soooo happy...

Let's Go Crazy

I realized I've been posting a lot of dreamy subdued styles around here, so I think it's time we took a little walk on the wild side with this editorial...

Killah! I need this for my summer wardrobe please.

Just when you thought you were over Ikat...
(ps, my hair looks JUST like that in the morning.)

Love the neon punch paired with a soft black... or navy?

Zebra jumpsuit? Maybe not. But I'll take those heels. Dang.

*UPDATE!! Found the resource: Animal Instincts shoot at Marie Claire. Check it out for all the clothing sources!

Room of the Week 1.7

Ok, so it's not really a room. It's a bar. But I love it. Love the stools, love the collection of vintage shakers, and love the lightness of it. Who wouldn't want this in a little corner of their home?



Of course, if I had a whole basement to work with...



Yeah, I'd do that. Zebra rugs and all! I love to entertain, so what would be better than just having a full bar set up and ready to go?

Both images via Desire to Inspire

INTERIORS TO INSPIRE: GOLDEN GLORY

Hello friends, and happy new year! Julie here from Chapman Interiors bringing you an Interiors to Inspire home tour that is sure to tickle your fancy. This project by Nate Berkus in Chicago immediately caught my eye with the extensive use of caramel throughout. (Because lawd knows, I use this color in nearly all my projects.)

 

The chairs are the show stopper in this modern-meets-traditional dining room. But, the silhouette of the dining table, sparkly chandelier and moody art all make the space truly outstanding. Modern and traditional are well at work here.

 

The sitting room is comfortable with it's golden silk rug and sumptuous fur throw. Cool and warm tones are balanced perfectly, making the room neither masculine or feminine; it's timeless in every way.

 

In the cozy den, the walls are glowing with gold. A leggy coffee table, tufted arm chair and zebra rug keep the room dynamic (oh, and that adorable sequin pillow adds a punch of whimsy!). I imagine this room feels warm even on the most grey winter day - something to keep in mind for those of us in the chilly climates!

Here's what we come up with to translate Nate's look for our own space...

 

The trick to mixing modern and traditional is to keep the color palette strict. For this project, use plenty of golds and warm metals, keep the walls a light neutral (a cool-based gray would work wonderfully) and don't forget to add a few modern (very straight-lined) pieces. Before you know it you'll be the queen of mixing styles!

Ta-ta for now,

xoxo

-Julie

*resources: canopy chair, pivot lamp, modern wall art, monglian pillow, lucite end table, sunburst mirror. images via Nate Berkus.

BUNNY WILLIAMS + REDEFINING GLAMOUR

Recently I was asked (for the 100th time) what trend it is that I'm most sick of these days. And as I pondered the answer, I realized it's not so much a trend that I'm over, but a look. Specifically, the typical pieces used to put together what I consider to be the most generalized definition of 'glamour' to the majority. Gold or chrome finishes, zebra rugs, graphic prints (likely zig zags), lucite, at least one oversized piece that creates a bold presence in the room, and tons of accessories. Apart, I still love them all, but together they're getting quite predictable.

As someone who likes to define my own spaces with the word glamour, I feel ready for a redefinition of the term...

Which is why when I saw this simple but (yes!) glamorously inspired space by Bunny Williams in the latest Elle Decor, I was struck with the thought that perhaps this is what I'm leaning towards? It's a somewhat odd but cohesive mix of styles, with a completely practical sofa paired alongside statement chairs and a very noticeable lack of clutter. The coffee table definitely takes the prize for most glam piece in the room, and the high gloss finishes certainly help support it, but the overall feel is modern glamour... simplified. Even the pairing of pillows on the sofa with that unexpected leopard lend themselves to this more relaxed idea of glamorous style. There's no bold graphic rug, dripping chandelier or gilded mirror. It's soft, welcoming and livable.

So, what do you think? Is it boring and blah? Or refreshing? Are there elements missing that you would add to help define it as a glamorous space? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Room of the Week 1.10

This week's 'Room of the Week' is brought to you by the number sixx... Sixx Design that is. Their rooms have been featured lately on a few blogs around here, so I popped over to their site myself to see what other brilliance I could find. It was hard to pick a favorite for this week, but during the sunny, but chilly, days of winter, doesn't everyone crave a sun porch? When you can't go lay out on the beach, at least you can snuggle down on a comfy sofa or daybed (in this case) to catch some rays.

I love this room for its simplicity, the use of that rich red, and the whimsical little garden gnome just chillin' on the floor (see him?). And see that great lighting fixture?



Here it is again in another gorgeous room (runner up for this week's room). I have a slight obsession with giant windows like the one in this room. Church salvage is one of my favorites, and the next best thing to just renovating a church into a home (see last week's room!). And, again, they've used that warm red against the white. In fact, there were definitely a few patterns in their work, so I'll share some other wonderful spaces with you while I'm at it...





Collections of portraits (another obsession of mine) to add some charm, character, and color or warmth to a space.





An apparent love of 2Pac - and done so well, I might add. I especially love the second room - such a juxtaposition of styles! Modern prints, a pop of yellow in that mid-century chair, a classic pedistal for the table, a zebra rug (of course!), vintage lamp, and a worn wood chair. Who would think that somehow all of these pieces would work together? And the paint on the walls - very cool. It has the aesthetic of concrete, but with much more texture. Add the baseboards to frame it out against the deep wood floors. Genius. Perhaps this should have been the room of the week...



One last room for good measure - this is the one that drew me to their site in the first place. A great use of white space to allow the color to really pop.

INTERIORS TO INSPIRE: GLAMOUR IN PASTELS

Hello Lovelies! Julie from Chapman Interiors here bringing you a true Hollywood Glam home today. Designer Jay Jeffers is responsible for the fresh color palette brimming with coral and aqua and unique details that create some real personality in these rooms. Let's check it out!

I am dying over the windows softly traced in that aqua (presumably to call more attention to the fabulous architecture) . The mushroom colored settee is a departure from the expected sofa, giving the light permission to flood right in where a sofa back would usually be cutting it off. Fluffy white pillows reinforce the glow.

There is sparkle everywhere! The tiny mosaic tiles (in the same appropriate aqua!), bubbly mantle piece, benches floating on lucite legs, chrome coffee table base, silver candle sticks in the fireplace... all together these accents shout glitz and glamour (and yet the room seems to seductively whisper, don't you think?).

This chandelier makes me giddy! The delicate vertical elements pair perfectly opposite the glowing glass bubbles reaching for the table. The coral ceiling and wall trim are a great way to introduce color without being forced to paint an entire wall. I think those tulips may have been custom dyed... they're too perfect!

The dining table being set at an unexpected angle and the fun zebra sideboard make the space dynamic and exciting (Bonus: It's fairly easy to change the material on the sideboard on a whim! This is an easy and impactful way to bring in some bold graphics without spending a fortune).

In using this style to inspire your space,

* Consider painting your trim an aqua color and letting the walls take a back seat in ivory.

* Choose an art deco inspired occasional chair in a patterned upholstery. Leave the wood very dark or have it refinished with a dark lacquer.

* Add a few patterned upholstered pieces that don't match each other perfectly. Even better if the material has a little splash of metallic.

* Furniture should rest on a thin leg (or even a lucite leg!) to impart a light and airy feeling.

* Accent with a soft coral, grays, aquas and tans.

* Don't forget a dash of sparkle and glam, after all, this is a Hollywood home!

You'll get a little something like this...

And there we have it!  Hollywood is knocking...

xoxo

-Julie

*resources: chandelier, gold pillow, coral pillow, Benjamin Moore Heavenly Blue #709, white settee, glass coffee table, deco tray, 1st dibs vintage chair.

Pull Up A Chair

I recently bought this great farm table/desk to use in my dining room (got it for a steal on craigslist!) and immediately began dreaming of all sorts of styles of chairs I could pair it with. Would I do an eclectic mix? Would I go totally modern?



After making the round through thrift stores in my neighborhood I stumbled upon a pair of chairs with great potential...



... but they were pretty worn down. So I brought 'em home, tore off the nasty seat covers, shined them up, recovered them with some fabric I had laying around and some extra cush for the tush, and posted them at each end of the table. Not too bad huh?



I'll probably get sick of the fabric and recover them with something a bit more luxe when i have more time and cash... but of course, this leaves me with the need for two more chairs, and if I had my way, I'd be purchasing any of these gorgeous designs from Philippe Starck, one of my favorite designers.



Adore the contrast of modern style with such intricate nature-inspired cutouts.



One of my favorite designs from Stark ~ the Mademoiselle chair. I like this fabric best to match the farmhouse table, but he has some other yummy choices as well.



I especially like the idea of a grey chair with my table, but really if I had to decide between these three... I have no idea what I'd choose!

Back to reality... I've also discovered a few other options that are much more within my budget...



The Zebra chair from CB2 would be a fun way to bring in a little pattern while playing off of the fabric I used to cover the chairs.



I love the idea of a soft, warm leather at my table. Especially after it's really worn in. This option is also from CB2, so it's fairly affordable.



I really like that these chairs from OFFI that I found on Design Public mimic the lines of the bistro chairs I already have for the table, but in a clean modern white.

If you have any other ideas or suggestion, please pass them along!!

From The Office Of: Ruby Press

As a part of style (e)scapes this week, I've asked some of my favorite stylish (and hard working!) bloggers to share their own real work spaces with us, and I'm thrilled to introduce my fist contributor, Melissa of Ruby Press - not just a fabulous little blog, but a kick ass boutique PR agency.

My office is a very important space for me. I spend a lot of time there so I have to LOVE it and feel happy in it. We took a long time finding our current office- it had to be just right. Our current space is in downtown Berkeley and is in a historic building called the Heywood Building

We’re on the top floor of a white terra cotta gothic façade building designed by James Plachek in 1919. He was a well-known architect at the time and designed many buildings in the area, and his office was in the very space we’re in now! It’s a very open, 2,000 square foot space with gorgeous moldings and high ceilings. I love the three big arched windows in the front, which is where my desk is. It’s always light-filled, which is great.

I have a huge bulletin board (it’s taller than me!) next to my desk which is where I stick the most beautiful things I come across- magazine clippings, vintage finds, antique labels, favorite thank you notes, millinery flowers, random flea market finds, and of course my calendar. (Which is a Tim Walker calendar- love it!) I’m thinking about getting another one actually- to put right next to it. Since our space is so clean and spare, my inspiration board really adds a nice punch of color and girliness.
My desk feels like it’s being overrun with boxes lately- I have a red lacquer box, white lacquer box, zebra-print haircalf box, offcuts box and a box of Mrs. John L.Strong stationery. (They come in handy as my desk only has two very shallow drawers.) Oh, and that hand you see on top of the white box was something silly that I picked up at John Derian, one of my favorite NY shops of all time.

My mirrored tissue box from Williams-Sonoma Home (don’t they have the chicest home accessories?) was an office-warming gift from a dear friend and I think of her each time I look at it. I love the items on my desk, but I think my favorite desktop item is my iomoi desk pad with the “Ling the Elephant” print which is housed in a chic lucite holder. Even a tape dispenser and stapler should be good-looking, right? Mine are lucite and I ordered them for everyone else in the office too.

I love stationery and seem to always be writing thank you notes (call me old-fashioned!), so I keep a white lacquer stationery box on my desk which is filled with beautiful papers from iomoi and other favorites. I always use a blank book for my daily to-do’s, and the one I’m using right now is a hot pink with gold embroidered Indian notebook that I picked up somewhere.

Of course, since we have an amazing floral design client- Rosenow Floral - I am lucky to always have fresh flowers on my desk. This week it’s white ranunculus, which I love, love, love. And Diptyque’s Geranium Rosa candle has become of the official scent of the office - it’s so fresh, it really invigorates!

Overall, our office is a mix of furniture from West Elm, Pottery Barn, Ikea, Cost Plus World Market, Design Within Reach, and vintage. I’m a big fan of the mix, and I don’t think you have to spend a fortune to create a pretty, happy space.

I am in LOVE with Melissa's set up! Very similar to my own aesthetic, great accessories (I am obsessed with lucite myself) and such a clean and inspirational space! Thank you so much for contributing, girlie! More tomorrow...

*for full size photos of melissa's gorgeous office, check out the flickr album for style (e)scape week!