THE GOODS design

Fleas

2012-02-13T09:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I hit up one of my favorite spots for bargain hunting - the Rose Bowl flea market. I love the Rose Bowl flea market best - I always know I'm going to find some great goodies. And yesterday was no exception.

I go into these flea markets with the idea that I'm going to be the foster mama to these gorgeous things. They will live in my home or office, and I will love them and take very good care of them. And if one day a client comes along who could use a brass ram sculpture or gorgeous tray, then it makes me happy to see my clients happy and I place my vintage treasures in my client's home...

Some of the new goodies taking up residence in my home:

This pretty ram.

A little round tray that's meant to be a caddy for your wine bottles. I may permanently adopt this as a little tray on my nightstand...

A larger tray

And the ones that got away? These gorgeous brass chivari chairs. It literally pained me to walk away from these. But at $450 for the pair, I couldn't think of a spot in my own home for these or a client they'd be perfect for... But I'm still have quite a bit of non-buying remorse!

Hello Gorgeous!

2012-02-08T21:48:00.000-08:00

The last few issues of Elle Decor had been a bit of a snore for me, but this home {designed by owner Jackie Astier and photographed by Eric Piasecki} featured in this month's issue is pure perfection.

Whaaaat?!

2012-02-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

This just in - a reincarnation of everyone's favorite design magazine, Domino, will be released as a special edition this spring {April 17th} with another planned for the fall. This is more exciting than a piece of chocolate cake!

Source: Uploaded by user via Rebecca of on Pinterest

Today You Can Find Me...

2012-02-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

Today you can find me at Things That Sparkle {one of my favorite blogs!} where I got share my favorite goodies around my home. Thanks Alex for inviting me!

Bathroom Feng Shui

2012-02-06T17:09:00.000-08:00

After talking to a fabulous Feng Shui expert, I've realized my bathroom could certainly use a sprucing... Here are some gorgeous vanity vignettes that have me inspired.

Source: camillestyles.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: materialgirlsblog.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: tarahlowry.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

DIY Friday

2012-02-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

For a while I've been wishing the purse fairy would bring me a cute little clutch like this. But at $145 for just a tiny thing {6" wide by 4.5" high} that would barely fit my iPhone, I just couldn't do it.

I noticed this fabulous DIY number over on Atlantic-Pacific - painted stripes on an American Apparal clutch.

So I tooted over to American Apparel for a tan $46 medium clutch {14" wide x 9.25" tall.} I was almost going to be a nut and try to paint it myself, when a smart friend recommended I take it to my shoe guy. My shoe guy took it even a step further and pulled out a perfect and pretty strip of pink leather to stitch on...

So I introduce to you, my very own custom clutch.

TADA!

Rugs are Definitely My Drugs

2012-02-02T07:26:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I'm a big fan of Jonathan Adler... A few months ago I was perusing People Magazine and fell for this rug in his dining room.

Yum. Ombre + Scalloped Edges = Fabulous

Weekend at the Ace

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we packed up the car and the puppy to take advantage of the gorgeous warm January weekend in Palm Springs. We headed over to the dog-friendly Ace Hotel for some sun, some pool, and some relaxing. Here's a few of my favorite instagram-ed shots.

After a day at the pool, the little guy was all tuckered out.

Chandeliers

2012-01-31T08:31:00.000-08:00

I love a glamorous chandelier to bring a little sparkle into a home - but who knew I would love a chandelier print on a dress?

By Ted Baker as seen on Taylor Swift in People Magazine

She's Crafty

2012-01-30T08:27:00.000-08:00

It's not even February yet, but I've already got Valentine's Day on the brain. Must be from all the February magazines I have been reading these days. I fell in love with these crafty D-I-Y card ideas in this month's Martha Stewart Living Magazine.

Floral Gorgeousness

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I popped into my new favorite florist, The Conservatory, here in LA {a recommendation from Jessica of Life's Little Jems.} They have the most incredible flowers, but these are what caught my eye...

Pin Me!

2012-01-24T08:33:00.000-08:00

Some of my favorite pins on Pinterest recently are all about COLOR! Whether it's a dark room or a pop of pink, I'm all about unexpected color these days.

Source: twelvechairsboston.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: gallery.apartmenttherapy.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Kitchen Love

2012-01-23T10:27:00.000-08:00

Loving this kitchen, spotted in Canadian House & Home Magazine, photographed by Michael Graydon.

My favorite part? This gorgeous brass faucet...

Can't wait for the day I get to design my own home kitchen!

Balloon Party

2012-01-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned on Instagram earlier this week {you can follow me @thegoodsdesign} I have some gorgeous goodies from Geronimo Balloons floating around my living room. I entertained over the weekend and felt it was the perfect excuse for a little extra balloon fun and sparkle in my home!

Here I am posing with one of my spiffy balloons, and having a private dance party while waiting for guests to arrive.

Hooray for balloons!

Is That A TeePee in Your House? Or Are You Just Happy To See Me?

2012-01-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

Did you see the Refinery29 profile of Minnie Mortimer's LA area home yesterday? I absolutely loved it. My favorite thing? The teepee in her dining room.

Photo by Maia Herms

I realized I've been on a teepee binge of sorts and found all these images I've been saving of in-home teepees.

Love love love the color combo on this one. Image from Dwell/Best Homes in America, photo by Noah Webb. You can get yourself one here {I just might.}

Here are a few teepees I've been pinning on Pinterest.

Source: themarionhousebook.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: brown-paper-packages.com.au via Alissa on Pinterest

Not sure I have a good spot in my home for a teepee. Maybe I can put it in my office and make it my laptop nook?

Non-Buyers Remorse Part Two

2012-01-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

On Friday, I posted about a fabulous pink chevron pillow I regretted passing up when I saw it in NYC last fall. Well, over the weekend I found this pink chevron pillow at Target and couldn't say no.

It now lives happily on the corner chair in my bedroom. Its cousin, a blue chevron pillow, sits in my office. Because when I go to Target I have no willpower to say no. I fall under their spell of cute goodies at fantastic prices.

Non-Buyers Remorse

2012-01-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

You know when you don't buy something, then you wish you had? Yeah, that's happened to me too. I didn't buy this pillow when I blogged about it in October of 2011.

So thank goodness I spotted it in this month's Elle Decor! It can still be mine, from Mercado Global. And it makes me feel even better to know it's through a company that helps Guatemalan women sell their handmade goods to a global market. These bright colors would work perfectly in my den or office!

Wow'd by West Elm

2012-01-11T08:01:00.000-08:00

I was wow'd by these two pages of the West Elm catalog. It's always nice to know that your home can get a little freshening up with some fun goodies, without having to go bankrupt, no?

These Are a Few of my Favorite Things... About Thailand

2012-01-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

So here it is - a mega-long blog post about my incredible trip to Thailand. We spent 2 weeks over there {visiting Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai.} It was my first trip anywhere in Asia - and it was just amazing. I thought I would organize my photos by sharing my 9 favorite things about the trip...

FAVORITE THING #1: The food

I didn't realize how much I loved Thai food until this trip. I could eat Tom Ka Gai Soup {made with coconut milk, chicken and mushrooms} and Fried Spring Rolls all day, everyday.

Photos - clockwise from top: Tom Ka Gai soup from the Sukhothai Hotel in Bangkok, Me proudly showing off the spring rolls I made in my cooking school in Chiang Mai, Bins of rice {priced based on quality} from the local market in Chiang Mai, Me insanely proud of my most perfect spring roll, Spring Rolls from the Sukhothai Hotel {mine didn't cook quite so perfectly}

FAVORITE THING #2: The Temples

The gorgeous Buddhist temples were just amazing. I have thousands of pictures I could share, but the gold elements were always awe-inspiring to me.

I'm interested in the significance of these beauties in the picture below, they look like tiers of an ornate cake - so far I haven't found any info, so if you know please enlighten me :)

I loved this temple, pictured below, in Chiang Mai with its giant regal elephants. And glad my hot pink ban.do headband made it into my suitcase. Their adorable accessories kept me sparkling all throughout Thailand.

FAVORITE THING #3: The beaches

We stayed on the island of Phuket and took a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands to enjoy the most insane white sand beaches and crystal clear water. Most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. While we spent much of the trip staying busy with activities like sight-seeing in Bangkok and taking cooking class in Chiang Mai, we also had plenty of time to read, relax and reflect on the beach {both in Phuket and on another island - Koh Samui.} Ahhhhhhhh....

FAVORITE THING #4: The Tuk Tuks

The most adorable mode of transportation ever invented.

FAVORITE THING #5: The vibrant colors

FAVORITE THING #6: The Shopping

I have never come home with more souvenirs in my life. The goodies in Thailand were just gorgeous - from silk scarves to woven bracelets to shoes bought from a man by the side of the river...

FAVORITE THING #7: New Years Eve

My best NYE ever - we had a room on the 18th floor of the Sheraton in Bangkok overlooking the river. When the fireworks went off at midnight, we had a VIP view from the comfort of our own room. Room service + plush bathrobes + my husband + fireworks = Best NYE of all time.

FAVORITE THING #8: Happiness

2010 and 2011 brought some major challenges my way, so this trip was the boost of happiness I needed to kick off 2012 in the right direction. On our way home from Bangkok, I spotted this sign for "Happy Air" {in the bottom right corner of the Domestic Airlines sign} and thought it perfectly captured the spirit of the trip.

FAVORITE THING #9: 2 straight weeks with my husband

My absolute hands down favorite thing about the trip was getting 2 weeks straight to spend with my husband. Whether we were sitting on a plane for 18 hours or stretched out on the beach or hiking up 309 stairs to get to a temple, the greatest luxury and joy was spending so much time with him.

Now, where should our next adventure take us?

I'm back with Walls of Pretty!

2012-01-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

I'm back! It took all last week to get my brain screwed on straight after my amazing two week trip to Thailand. I had clients to reconvene with, sleep to catch up on, AND Wednesday I dropped everything to celebrate my birthday!

But now I'm back to life, back to reality. And feeling fresh as a daisy. I promise to share some images and stories from my trip soon {it was one of the best trips of my life.}

I had lots of design magazines to catch up with when I got back - I fell in love with these two images from Canadian House and Home magazine. I'm currently working on a project in which we are using John Derian plates to decorate the dining room wall - so how adorable are these faux-wallpapers?

Blue porcelain plate wallpaper from Studio Ditte

Or this little goodie, with faux-vintage postcards is adorable from Provincial Wallcoverings.

If you are interested in doing the 3D version, using real plates, like we are in the client project, I'm loving these John Derian plates recently featured in House Beautiful.

Jet Lagggged

2012-01-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

This jet lag stuff is no joke. Sunday night my husband and I returned from an epic 2-week trip to Thailand (a 15 hour time difference from Los Angeles) - it was an amazing mix of gorgeous beaches and Thai culture (ie gorgeous golden Buddhist temples.) I cannot wait to share some of my adventures with you, but first I need to download and sort through over 2,000 photos (that's not an exaggeration), get more than 2 hours sleep in a row, and sort through my inbox.

Very much looking forward to what 2012 has in store for me!

Before I head back into my email pile, I will share 3 pics we took on my iPhone to wet your whistle...

Me taking some pictures of the Grand Palace in Bangkok

My view from lunch at our hotel in Phuket

One of my favorite souvenir purchases - shoes from Bangkok {terribly uncomfortable, but I couldn't resist buying them, since it made me feel like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City 2!}

Last, But CERTAINLY Not Least

2011-12-30T08:25:00.000-08:00

For my final friends with blogs post, I present one of my favorit-est ladies, Michelle of Jot Creates and Sparky & Marie. Michelle and I met when she designed my wedding invitations. I'd come in to approve a color or select a paper, and we would end up talking for hours! Once the wedding planning was over, we started going on double dates with her and her man. Years later the four of us are still friends and Michelle is a successful business woman who has really helped me start my business. With Jot Creates, Michelle works with companies to create a branding identity and do all the graphic design needed to show your clients who you are and how fabulous your company is. With Sparky & Marie, Michelle creates gorgeous prints and graphics. She has a blog over at Sparky & Marie that keeps me inspired and happy all year round!

One column I love is called The Look - where she breaks down a fashion style she's seen a friend wear and helps you achieve the look for yourself! She's featured me before, but here's a great one she put together based on her friend Jessica.

I also love her crafty ideas she shares - here is a wow one for how to make a paper wreath.

Hooray! And thank you to all my wonderful friends with blogs for letting me feature them while my creative juices recharge!

Blogger in the OC

2011-12-28T09:16:00.000-08:00

I met Becca of Rebecca June when we started commenting on each others blogs. She's an interior designer who lives/works only 45 minutes south of LA, so one day I found myself taking a mini-roadtrip to meet her for some lunch and interior design shopping. While we haven't seen each other since, we stay connected through blogs, emails, texts and tweets. I'm a huge fan of her lifestyle blog, in which she posts her personal fashion, gorgeous inspiration images, design goodies she's spotted or has in her gorgeous home... And if you are in need of a baby gift, check out her Etsy site of adorable custom onesies!

So thank you to the internet for introducing me to Becca!

I LOVE her personal style posts. I might break into her house to snatch up her jewelry!

She always shares gorgeous and interesting interior design inspiration. I particularly loved her recent post with seafoam green goodies (you know you love interior design a little too much when seafoam green get you giddy.)

Friends Who Are Neighbors, with Blogs!

2011-12-26T08:04:00.000-08:00

My next friend with a blog happens to live just across the street from me! Our previous neighbors were a nightmare. I won't go into it, but let's just say I kept my alarm on 24/7 and we saw a bounty hunter sneak up on the house one day to arrest one of the kids' friends. It was sad to see a family in such chaos, but I was thrilled when the new neighbors turned out to be fun and fabulous!

Lynsey is a lawyer with a great love of fashion - so while she dominates in the courtroom during the day, she glams it up on her blog {Law of Fashion} in the evenings. Her blog documents her personal fashion choices and we get to watch as she puts together incredible combos that challenge typical office attire. She also shares some gorgeous fashion inspiration images that are dangerous for my credit card.

Love this recent image she posted of sheer blouses.

I might steal this maxi-skirt from her house when she's not looking.

Her blog is a fun read for so many reasons - and I love seeing my house pop up in the background every once in a while!

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! Wishing you a wonderful holiday - no matter how warm or cold it is in your neck of the woods...

Slim Aarons photo, via C Magazine.

More Friends

2011-12-23T08:54:00.000-08:00

So I've run out of funny song lyrics to title my post, but my next friend with a blog post is about an amazing business woman I met by chance one day, Alison of Faire Frou Frou. It was a cold day in March and I wanted a little special ban.do to wear to an engagement party. Alison's store, Faire Frou Frou, a lingerie boutique in Studio City, CA not only carries some of the most gorgeous lingerie pieces you've ever seen - she also carries ban.do accessories and lots of other goodies that can add a little spice to your day. We started chatting, and have been friends ever since.

This multi-talented business mogul runs a boutique, carries all her amazing goodies online, and has a gorgeous {and spicy!} blog, Frou Frou Fashionista, to inspire you to glam up your life - especially your underpinnings.

Some of my favorite goodies from Alison's blog have included:

I'm really loving the high-waisted thing these days. So flattering!

Alison is on pinterest - and her pins are always inspiring - here's a round up she did of some of her favorite pinterest images, just to wet your whistle.

Friendship Never Ends

2011-12-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

It's day four of my Friends with Blogs round-up. Today I am featuring my wonderful friend, the loverly Catherine of The Life Styled. Catherine spends her days as a fashion stylist, bringing her incredible knowledge and creative flair to photo shoots or to client's closets. I was fortunate to use her services for a closet detox {to help me get rid of things that just needed to go} and her Fashion Feng Shui service {which is a MUST - please read her description of it here, but in a nut shell it gives you the tools to go shopping and get dressed without the stress and feel pretty all the time by honoring the essence of who you are.}

Catherine's blog has great nuggets of information - the season's must-have pieces or how to get the look for less - and she also shares her own personal style in a way that's oh so inspiring.

Some of my favorite blog posts she's shared recently:

Gorgeous scarves - check out the blog post too as there's a great video on how to tie your scarves in lots and lots of ways!

Love her personal fashion posts - this one blew my mind. Never would have thought to pair "tomato on tomato" as she calls it. Love it!

That's What Friends Are For

2011-12-21T08:45:00.000-08:00

It's only day three of my Friends with Blogs round-up {my favorite bloggers and friends} and I'm already having a tough time coming up with "friend" related song titles to use for the blog title.

I met Jaimi of Fiore Beauty through some fabulous ladies networking, and boy am I a lucky lady to have her in my life. Not only is she a great friend, but she has helped me streamline my beauty routine, so I never leave the house without glamorous lashes and pretty pouty lips {she helped me brave the world of bright lipsticks and now my lips will never be the same.}

Fiore Beauty is an on-site beauty service, bringing make-up artists, hair stylists, massage therapists, manicurists, to you, for a special event or just to spiff yourself up. On Jaimi's blog, she shares her insider beauty tips and tricks with you. It's a must read before you stock up on new faces creams and lip glosses... Some beauty tricks from her blog that have changed my daily routine are:

This drugstore mascara

The cutest little gold bobbi pins.

The best eyeliner!

You've Got a Friend in Me

2011-12-20T09:15:00.000-08:00

It's Day Two of my Friends with Blogs round-up - my favorite bloggers and friends!

I worked in the same office with Jessica from Life's Little Jems a few years ago, and our passions for design, fashion, food and fun has kept us friends years after we left our old office. Her ability to find the most amazing, unique finds will keep you popping over to her blog daily. And her gorgeous etsy shop, where she sells great flea market goodies, has a little something for everyone! You may have spotted her design work in Rue... check out her interior design website for more goodies.

These two recent posts of hers that had me drooling...

A cool lunch bag inspired clutch - a little throw back to your childhood.

I'm jones-ing to go on a road trip in this whimsical Airstream trailer {which recently went on sale on One Kings Lane!}

It's a blog not to be missed!

I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends

2011-12-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

Around holiday time, I love to give myself a little blog-cation. Time to rest up, re-inspire, and spend time with family and friends. So I like to prepare ahead of time with a few blog posts that center around one theme. Two years ago, I did the A-Z's of interior design, with 26 days of alphabetically inspired posts. Last year, I did The Best of the Goods - a round up of my favorite images and trends throughout the year.

This year I'll be featuring my friends with blogs - either friends of mine who have blogs, or bloggers who have become friends of mine...

So without further ado I bring to you my first friend: Chantal of Meta Musings!

Chantal and I met in design school and clicked from the start. From group projects, to now both running our own interior design businesses (she founded Meta Interiors) she has always been a great friend and amazing support. Her aesthetic is clean and modern, but always with a warm and organic vibe mixed in. You MUST check out her website and blog. But in the meantime, here are a few of my favorite inspiration images Chantal has shared through her blog:

From the art, to the fireplace to the pop of blue, love this one.

More of this post here

Those pendants? Kind of jealous.

More of this post here.

Enjoy! And hope you enjoy seeing some more of my friends with blogs throughout the holiday weeks!

Christmas Time!

2011-12-16T07:54:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just around the corner! If you haven't had time to get a tree or rock out with lights, this is the perfect decorating solution.

photo by Roger Mertin, via Real Simple December 2011 issue.

Stunning Shower

2011-12-15T07:33:00.000-08:00

Would love a shower like this. View included.

image from Australian Vogue Living, by Olson Kundig Architects, photo by Jason Schmidt

Tea for Two

2011-12-14T07:27:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I hosted a bridal shower for my sister at my home. It was an afternoon tea and we had a great time, but now I have a few white teapots collecting dust in my cupboards. This image from Australian Vogue Living is a great inspiration image - time to dust off those teapots and head to the florist!

2011-12-13T07:09:00.000-08:00

I haven't been reading Architectural Digest recently, so yesterday I picked up AD, plus some other magazines I've been neglecting recently. So glad I did, because this house by Daniel Romualdez is insanely gorgeous.

My house might need one of those Lalanne sheep.

photos by Roger Davies

I'd Rather Be...

2011-12-12T17:56:00.000-08:00

I usually love a cold, snuggly, rainy day, but today, I'd rather be here.

Loving this gorgeous outdoor chaise - spotted in this ad for Sutherland.

I Was On TV Last Night

2011-12-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

I'm such a goofball, but I have to admit, I'm kinda excited to share that I was on tv last night. A few months ago, I filmed a little segment on "The Great Big American Auction" on ABC. The producer I worked with emailed me a few days ago to let me know it was going to air, but I was so nervous that I would look like a goofy-goober, I didn't want to tell anyone about it. But great news, I did not look like a goofy goober!

I had a great day filming, and I didn't do or say anything too embarrassing, I was just nervous and self-conscious about the whole thing. But I DVR'd the show and here are some stills of me {I was on for about 3 seconds in a montage, so if you blinked you missed me.}

The concept of the show is that people bring in antiques or flea-market treasures and if they are worth lots of money, they sell them at the auction in the end of the show. I brought in my owl {which I had been told was a real Curtis Jere - you can read my blog when I first bought it here.}

So I appear in a montage in which people are bringing in things that turn out not to be valuable {wah wah wahhhhh.} When I showed my little metal owl to the appraiser-man, I made him dance across the table - and that's what made it on tv.

Here I am showing him my owl {my wallpaper isn't orange, it's just bad morning light.}

The owl is dancing across the table.

More dancing owl.

Here he is looking at it. Top and sweater from J. Crew.

My little owl still lives with us, he didn't make it to the auction. He lives happy in our bedroom. He is now a tv star, and has a huge ego.

Window Shopping

2011-12-09T07:23:00.000-08:00

A store's windows communicate so much about what's inside... which is why I love that Decorative Carpets has been pairing up with some of LA's best interior designers to style their windows using their latest rug collections.

I've blogged before about Tamara Kaye-Honey of House of Honey {her shop in Pasadena has some amazing vintage and new goodies.} She decorated their current window looks and I love what she did.

All furnishings and accessories shown available through House of Honey, all rugs shown available from Decorative Carpets

I love all three looks above - but if anyone is looking for a birthday gift for me, the rug in picture #2 or the coffee table in picture #3 would do just fine...

Lavender Love

2011-12-08T13:14:00.001-08:00

Ooooo, I would just love a lavender front door, wouldn't you?

Source: pianura.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Rue'd

2011-12-07T07:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the newest issue of Rue came out, and now I'm dying to visit the best-designed B&B I've ever seen, the Captain Fairfield Inn in Kennebunkport, Maine. Designed by Rachel Reider, it brings a sense of adventurous and fun interior design to the usually granny-looking aesthetic of the bed and breakfast inn.

Never been to Maine - I'd go just to see this place and enjoy some lobster rolls!

3 Looks

2011-12-06T07:49:00.000-08:00

3 fashion looks that are influencing what I want to add to my closet...

Spots

Source: insearchofluxury.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Neon!

Source: fashiongonerogue.com via Alissa on Pinterest

And more spots

Source: shopbop.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Magazine Week & The Goods {LOVES} Jonathan

2011-12-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

First of all, if you are an online magazine junkie like I am, it is a good week to be us. Matchbook Magazine came out with a new issue a few days ago {with fabulous gift ideas}, a new issue of Adore Home {an inspirational and beautiful design mag from Australia} popped up yesterday, and Rue is about to launch their newest issue. Hooray to the best reason to cuddle up with my pup, a cup of coffee and my laptop.

This issue of Adore was their summer issue {yes, it's summertime in Australia} so it was fun to be snuggled up at home in my sweats and look forward to some warm months ahead. One of my favorite little goodies they showcased was a flame stitched Jonathan Adler pillow, so I thought I'd head over to his website and share my favorite colorful J Ad pillows to bring to light and color and summer to our cool, crisp North American winter.

And of course, my very favorite:

We have a closet in my house filled to the brim with excess pillows... but my deranged brain thinks there's always a reason to buy more pillows!

Color Explosion

2011-12-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

With high winds and cold temperatures, it's beginning to feel a lot like winter here in LA. And the perfect antidote is an explosion of bright color.

Source: hegegreenall-scholtz.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: thedecorista.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Feeling hesitant to rock an orange wall or lime green cabinet? Me too. But these neon striped Refinery29/ClareVivier clutches have been calling my name recently - for a burst of color against my winter wardrobe of black.

Inspirational Inspiration

2011-11-30T07:11:00.000-08:00

I am so inspired by these inspiration boards. I am about to order a large bulletin board for my office, and this image definitely has me wanting to create a rainbow out of fabrics and magazine images!

Image of Carolina George shop in NYC, via Elle Decor

Commune Gorgeousness

2011-11-29T07:57:00.000-08:00

This weekend I finally had a chance to catch up on my design mag reading, and I fell head-over-heels for this home featured in House Beautiful, designed by Pamela Shamshiri for Commune and photographed by Amy Neunsinger.

How You Doin' ?

2011-11-28T07:40:00.000-08:00

How'd you spend your Thanksgiving weekend? Mine was loverly...

I packed my suitcase with all sorts of pretty goodies for a weekend in Northern California at my in-laws' home. I packed sparkles and neon and plenty of stripes...

My husband, pup and I piled into the car {after a bit of car drama and a trip to the mechanic.} We entertained ourselves with podcasts of 'This American Life' and mom & pup self-portraits.

In spite of our getting on the road 5 hours after we had wanted to, we had a smooth, clear ride up the I-5.

My mother-in-law always puts out the most fabulous Turkey Day decorations - her Thanksgiving themed rubber duckies are my favorites.

By the end of the meal, my tummy was full of stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy. I didn't let any veggies step foot on my plate. Unless you count cranberry sauce...

The highlight of the weekend was seeing my pup interact with my in-laws' new Boston Terrier. Cuddle time with the two of them was spectacular...

As you can see, I've gone a bit bananas with the photo editing apps. The above photos were taken by me and doctored on Instagram, PictureShow and/or Pic FX.

How'd you spend your turkey day? Hope it was filled with gravy and love.

I'll be back tomorrow with our regularly scheduled programming of gorgeous interior design!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Source: luxefinds.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Enter!

2011-11-23T07:46:00.000-08:00

Right now I live in a one-story home, but if I ever have a two-story abode, I'll definitely be putting in a fun runner like these...

Source: aperfectgray.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: paloma81.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Stylin' at Home

2011-11-22T07:55:00.000-08:00

As I said yesterday, I've been a stylin' fool these days, styling accessories for clients and for myself! After my most recent trip to the Pasadena flea market, my mantle got a little makeover and I am so happy with it I had to share.

My mantle had been become over-cluttered with cute tchotckes and heirlooms - so I took everything off and started from scratch. My office has now taken on the overflow of accessories, but the good news is that I'm so happy with my mantle! I've also included some pictures of our newest friend, Mr. Brass Rhino. He lives next to the fireplace in our den, but I thought he was too cute to be ignored.

Stylin'

2011-11-21T07:42:00.000-08:00

In the last few weeks I've been doing a lot of accessories styling - for clients and in my own house. Loving these two images I've seen on Pinterest recently as inspiration...

Source: knightmovesblog.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: mimiandmegblog.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Going Global

2011-11-16T07:07:00.000-08:00

Globes are the new coral. Coral used to be the go-to accessory to place in an adorable vignette along with a stack of pretty design books and little candle. Coral still definitely has its place, but globes and maps are everywhere these days. Maybe in a land of iPhones, iPads and computers galore, we are loving the nostalgia of the old school map and globe. I've blogged and pinned a few of my favorites, but I'm super in love with these custom decoupaged art pieces from Art on Globes {first spotted via Traditional Home.}

Wishful Thinkin'

2011-11-15T18:58:00.000-08:00

My ideal dress to wear to my birthday party. Just enough sequins to feel festive. Loose enough that I can eat whatever I want all night long.

By Vince via Nordstrom

The Early Bird Gets the Camel

2011-11-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

I went to the Rose Bowl flea market yesterday bright and early with two important missions.

Mission #1: Find gorgeous accessories for my clients' homes.

Mission #2: Find myself a camel.

I recently saw a gorgeous brass camel from a very high end antiques shop. It was WAY out of my budget, so I went on a mission to find one in my price range for my home. And guess what - yesterday at the flea market I found TWO gorgeous camels.

First I found this guy, as is.

Then we spotted this guy. He was mounted on a very ugly stand, so when we got home we set him free from his ugliness, and he is much happier.

We got there bright and early, so clearly, the early bird gets the camel.

Ballerina Beautiful

2011-11-10T07:40:00.000-08:00

I love the feature in House Beautiful where they take a beautiful image and use it to create a color palette and paint colors... Maybe it's because I'm a terrible dancer myself, but I just love all things ballerina.

I was equally in love with their image from last month too - blogged about it here.

Turn It Up

2011-11-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

I rarely blog about electronics or audio/visual equipment, but when something is this cool and would look so lovely in your home, I can't help myself.

from Anthropologie

Two Completely Unrelated Things I'm Loving

2011-11-09T07:26:00.000-08:00

I am in love with these lights from Visual Comfort.

Source: visualcomfort.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

So I used them in my client's kitchen above the island - this is a quickie pic I snapped with my iPhone - better images to come, I promise.

Another thing I'm loving? This picture of my dog in his Halloween costume. He hates being dressed up, and I get some sick pleasure from this picture. His face clearly says "Mommmmmm, get this thing off me!"

Loving Me Some Leopard

2011-11-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

The world is going through a Leopard-print-loving phase. And I'm totally on board.

This red-orange leopard print pillow is the perfect way to bring the trend into your home {spotted in House Beautiful, available at C Wonder.}

I'm definitely looking to bring some leopard into my wardrobe as well.

Source: Uploaded by user via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: easyfashion.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: allprettylittlethings.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Even my iPhone wants to get in on the action!

Source: jcrew.com via Kelley on Pinterest

One Door Opens

2011-11-07T07:47:00.000-08:00

I've posted many times on the blog before about beautiful doors. I love paying attention to the often overlooked details in design.

This door {via Elle Decor - designed by architect Robert A.M. Stern with Lualdi and available at Poliform} would definitely be in my dream home. Loving the brass frames and the modern-meets-classic vibe.

Stripe-a-mania

2011-11-03T07:45:00.000-07:00

If you read this blog regularly, it shouldn't be a surprise that I love a bold design statement. Like a high contrast stripe.

This month's issue of Matchbook Magazine {one of my must-read-mags} featured the home of Kate and Andy Spade along with some great insight into their creative process and partnership. I loved it all, but I particularly loved the green striped hallway.

This dressing room at J.Crew in Palm Springs had me swooning {it also caused me to buy a pair of yellow shorts and a gray sweater.}

One of my fav bloggers Rebecca June pinned this fancy schmancy hallway on Pinterest.

Source: withlovefromkat.com via Rebecca on Pinterest

Top image from Matchbook Magazine photos by Jamie Beck and Kevin Burg
Second image by me taken on my iPhone

House of Lolo

2011-11-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

I'm such an online magazine junkie - and as I was pouring through the most recent issue of House of Fifty, I fell in love with this adorably designed clothing store in Portland, Oregon - House of Lolo.

I would shop there anytime!

Fiddle Leaf Friday

2011-10-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ever since spotting this fiddle leaf fig tree in Keri Russell's apartment {featured in Elle Decor} I've known it was the perfect way to add some sophisticated greenery to my client's master bedroom...

The Keri Russell tree

My client's tree {from The Tropics here in LA}

Top photo from Elle Decor, photos by William Waldron
Bottom photos from my iPhone, by me

John Derian is the Man

2011-10-26T08:12:00.000-07:00

I'm working on putting together a wall of decorative plates in a client's dining room. One wall has a large round mirror, one wall has a gorgeous painting, so we decided that on the last wall space we'd do some art with a twist. I'm absolutely head over hells for John Derian's decoupaged plates and trays. He has some gorgeous ones with birds, peacocks and floral motifs, but I thought I'd share some of the ones I find most unique - like the shadow puppet bunny, the note on hotel stationary or the arrow below.

* Decorator hint: I'll be printing these trays and plate options in color, in their actual size, so my client and I can get a good sense of color and layout before we commit to buying the plates. I'm a huge fan of creating some sort of mock-up to help me and my clients visualize the final result. {I recently put together a fake chandelier, using cardboard and yarn, to decide if the scale and height was right for the space.} I'll definitely share the progress pictures!

Pinterest Pretty

2011-10-25T09:26:00.000-07:00

Looking through my Pinterest pictures, I'm realizing I clearly have a love for all things sparkly or striped!

Source: cherrywhore.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: plixi.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: None via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

I Wore a Room: Striped Edition

2011-10-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

As I said last week, I'm so thrilled to share a new column today that I'm calling "I Wore a Room." Aside from interior design {my day job} I'm also into fashion and cooking {we'll see if I can come up with any posts for a column called "I Ate a Room."} So I thought I'd combine my love for interiors and my love for fashion by putting together outfits that reflect a space that I love.

Ever since I first saw this image {from Lonny Magazine June/July 2010} designed by Lee Kleinhelter, I've been in love with it. The bold stripes on the wall. The bright orange headboards. All fabulousness.

So I made it an outfit!

Skirt: c/o Shabby Apple, Earrings: Kate Spade, T-Shirt: American Apparal, Shoes: Tory Burch, Necklace: on loan from my friend at Faire Frou Frou

I'm so excited to have this Shabby Apple skirt in my inaugural "I Wore a Room" post - and I'm doubly thrilled that Shabby Apple is offering The Goods Design readers a 10% off coupon code good for the next 30 days! Just type in the code "GOODSDESIGN10OFF" when prompted at check-out.

I'm a huge fan of Shabby Apple's women's dresses and skirts - particularly the one I'm wearing above {adorably named Teacher's Pet Skirt.} Some other adorable striped dresses on their website that can give you this room-look are the Bacciami! and the Gondola {I have a feeling I'll be wearing the Gondola in an upcoming post - it's too cute not to live in my closet.}

To stay current on their goodies, don't forget to like their Facebook page - and when you order one of their dresses, leave me a comment and let me know how you plan on wearing it!

** while I received my skirt compliments of Shabby Apple, all opinions are 100% honest and mine.

Accessory Day

2011-10-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I brought over some accessories to fill out a client's living room - here are some close ups of the accessories - I can't wait to share pictures of the whole completed room {look out for those in the next weeks!}

Peacock feathers add a splash of color, texture and height.

The orange Hermes box from Marquette brings a soft punch of color.

This little brass roman numeral tray from Mortise & Tenon was perfect for the cocktail table. And the fuchsia flowers tie in with the floral pillows.

Loving these gold lotus tea light holders so much, I might get some for my own! {a steal from Z Gallerie}

Remember the brass birds I blogged about yesterday? They found a happy home on the mirrored side table.

So many more goodies to share - can't wait to share the finished product!

And don't forget to come back Monday when I unveil my new fashion column!

Exciting Things!

2011-10-20T07:12:00.000-07:00

Today I'm bringing a truck load {okay, not literally} but I'm bringing a lot of gorgeous home accessories to try out in a client's home. I'm going to photograph them and share, because they are just too fabulous for words, but right now they are nicely packed up, so most of the sharing will have to wait until Friday's post. In the meantime, here are two brass goodies that haven't been packed yet.

Ram brass candlesticks

Pretty brass birdies

And make sure to come back on Monday - I'll be rolling out a new column combining my love of fashion and my love of interiors.

Pinterest - the Balloon edition

2011-10-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Last Monday I shared a post about the balloons that will definitely be gracing my birthday fiesta... Here's some more balloon gorgeousness I've recently pinned on pinterest.

Source: oohlafroufrou.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: yourhomebasedmom.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Family Portraits

2011-10-18T11:30:00.001-07:00

This month's Martha Stewart Living had a fabulous tutorial on creating your own cross-stitched family portrait. Kind of in love with the idea. I already want to learn how to do about 1,000 new things - now I've got one more thing to add to the list - cross-stitching.

It reminded me of the custom wedding invitations I saw over on Rifle Paper Co... I think me and my husband and our pup would make for an adorable little portrait!

Wedding Weekend

2011-10-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

It seemed like a major wedding weekend. We were in Palm Springs, celebrating the wedding of one of my oldest and loveliest friends. Everyone on Facebook seemed to be partying it up at various nuptuals. My across-the-street-neighbor, friend, and fellow blogger Lynsey {of the great fashion blog Law of Fashion} was also partying it up in Marfa, Texas.

I've been fascinated by Marfa ever since artists Elmgreen and Dragset permanently installed this sculpture - a fake Prada store on an otherwise empty stretch of road, filled with real Prada merchandise, in 2005. And with that, Marfa was on my radar.

I was excited to see the pictures Lynsey posted from the Thunderbird Hotel from her trip to Marfa this lovely wedding weekend.

Love it when modern/clean design also feels warm and inviting. Marfa, here I come!

Freaky Friday

2011-10-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Halloween is almost upon us {and I have no idea of what my costume will be!} I know the skull trend has pretty much jumped the shark, but this candle from Olive and Cocoa is pretty classic...

Seeing Stars

2011-10-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

I'm seeing stars! I had a vision for my office/second bedroom {from this inspiration image} ... and yesterday we made it happen!

First our muddy brown walls {left over from the previous home owner} were covered in primer.

Next the robin's egg paint color went up.

Then the amazing painters got to work stenciling each star, one by one, on our ceiling.

And they kept going and going and going.

And now my ceiling is filled with magical gold stars.

Nighty Night

2011-10-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

It's been busy times here at Swedlow Design - I've been juggling clients, soirees, blogging, and my own home re-design! Today my office is getting painted {you may remember this inspiration image} and I can't wait to show you the final result... but in the meantime my gorgeous navy velvet bed was delivered from Room Service yesterday! Here's a sneak peak at things coming together...

Last night, I slept like a log. Hooray for new bed!

Find Me Here...

2011-10-11T14:11:00.001-07:00

Today you can find me at Coco + Kelley, blogging about the Martyn Lawrence Bullard/Rug Company soiree!

Enjoy!

Birthday Girl

2011-10-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

My birthday is still many months away (early January,) but I'm already in planning mode. I'm still not sure exactly what I want to do, but I'm pretty sure I want it to involve these beautiful goodies from Geronimo Balloons...

I was lucky enough to be involved in a photo shoot with the fabulous photographer Heather Kincaid a few months ago - and these goodies made me feel like a pretty princess.

Maybe I should pick some up today - just because it's Monday!

Top three images from Geronimo Balloons, last image by Heather Kincaid

Dog Days

2011-10-07T07:26:00.000-07:00

I love my dog. And I love interior design. So when my love for design and my love for my pup come together, it's like an explosion of happiness, unicorns and rainbows.

While we are currently under construction in our master bedroom and second bedroom, I've been looking around the house for other things that need spiffing up. And one thing that was definitely looking sad was my dog's eating area. We bought ugly, utilitarian, blue mats from a pet store years ago and quickly turned a blind eye to their ugliness...

So I was excited to come upon the place mat website Mattie Luxe to add a little flair to my pup's meals.

Here's the before and after from my den...

My den. The new chevron place mat picks up on the blue color of our throw (which we keep on the sofa at all times to prevent puppy paw prints on the white sofa.)

The before and after in the kitchen.

Clearly we have a happy customer.

Rain Rain Come Again

2011-10-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it rained here in LA. Most people complain about the rain, but I love the excuse to pull out my rain boots and sip on hot cocoa.

And if I had an umbrella like this, I might do a rain dance everyday.

The pattern is taken from this Scalamandre wallpaper design (seen here in a gorgeous powder room.)

If you want to get yourself {or me!} the umbrella, you can do it here.

Organizing Kick

2011-10-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

In re-doing my master bedroom and second bedroom/office, I'm on a complete organizing kick. Out with the old so I can really enjoy the new. I was playing on my new iPad this weekend {I'm not sure how I lived without it!} and was reading free back issues of O, Oprah's magazine - I came upon these images for organizing your wardrobe.

Love the idea of adding a gorgeous piece of furniture to hold overflow things. In my old apartment, we had no storage for pots and pans, so we bought a gorgeous wood bookcase to keep in our dining room with our prettiest Le Creuset pots.

And this trick of merchandising your prettiest lacy goodies? I love anything that makes me feel like I'm shopping in my own closet!

Today I'll actually being doing a MAJOR closet purge with the help of friend, and amazing fashion stylist, Catherine Sheppard of The LifeStyled. Because there are some things in there that have to go, but I may need a little hand holding to do it. Organizing feels so darn good, doesn't it?

Pinterest Popularity

2011-10-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

Do you Pinterest? I love this image sharing website - where you can "pin" your favorite images {like a virtual bulletin board} and see what your favorite bloggers and creative gurus are pinning to their boards. The perfect way to get the creative juices following if you are feeling a bit stuck on a project.

Last week I pinned this door stop from the Conran Shop. And people seem to be loving it. I usually get a few re-pin's or likes on something I've posted, but so far this has gotten 42 re-pin's {meaning people have pinned it to their personal board} and 12 likes. Clearly this little guy is a winner.

So I bought two for my house.

Do you Pinterest? If so, share your user name in the comments so I can follow you!

Bedroom Preview

2011-10-03T08:06:00.000-07:00

A little preview of my bedroom. Wallpaper is up! Nightstands are in! Just waiting on the bed and wall art, and I'll give you the full tour.

Sources:

Wallpaper: Osborne & Little, Nightstand: World's Away, Lamp: Pier One, Rug: Ikea, Chair: Custom, Elephant: Rose Bowl Flea Market

On a side note, sorry for my blog silence all last week. Life gave me some lemons, and I was spending the week figuring out how to turn it into lemonade, lemon meringue pie, lemon drop martinis... But I'm happy to say this week I'm back to blogging.

Top Nine

2011-09-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was emailing a friend (and reader of The Goods) about my all-time favorite lighting shop - Circa Lighting. So in popping around on their website I thought I'd put together my favorites. While a Top Ten list is what David Letterman would do, a Top Nine list is much easier to layout.

I've used the Small Hicks in a project (over a kitchen island, and it looks stunning if I do say so myself.) The Paris flea market just arrived for a client's bedroom and I cannot WAIT to see it installed!

Happy Friday everyone!

How Much Do I Love This Chair?

2011-09-22T10:58:00.000-07:00

Source: splendidsass.blogspot.com via chantal on Pinterest

Source: piecesinc.com via Alissa on Pinterest

A lot.

Currently Swooning Over...

2011-09-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

...this gorgeous wallpaper - Asuka by Osborne and Little.

top image decor8 via this is glamorous. second image massucco warner miller.

Yay!

2011-09-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yay! The Jen Ramos LOVE print in yummy G-O-L-D is online and available to buy. I bought mine first thing this morning. You should too. Then we can be twins.

The Look for Less: Shoe Edition

2011-09-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

I'm back with another edition of the Look for Less, though this time it's not about interior design, it's about shoes!

I'm a bridesmaid in a wedding next month, and the foot attire is gold shoes. I fell in love with a $$$ shoe, but this morning while shopping around on the internet, I think I found myself a good look for less!

Two of the following shoes are pricey, and one isn't. Can you tell which is which?

Give up? Shoe #1 and Shoe #3 are Kate Spade, while #2 is a random brand from Nordstrom! #2 is coming my way via mail right now - so we'll see if my pretty little feet can tell the difference.

Alissa's Book Club

2011-09-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

Currently Reading:

A great book by the guru of the business side of interior design. I'm not done yet, but so far it seems like a must-read for anyone with their own design practice.

MVP Award:

This book came out in 2008 - and 3 years later it's still a go-to classic. I bring it on a lot of initial client meetings to discuss inspiration and style ideas.

Wishlist:

I didn't make it onto the RSVP list for the LA book signing for this great book, but I'll definitely be adding it to my collection soon. The combo of inspiration images and DIY projects looks fantastic.

Can't Say No to a Pretty Little Bow

2011-09-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

I love a pretty little bow - in any form!

Source: greenlikebathwater.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: fashionologie.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: None via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: thebeautydepartment.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: allprettylittlethings.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Pimpin' All Over The World

2011-09-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

This was by far my favorite image from the most recent issue of Lonny Magazine. The homeowner found this large-scale map on SkyMall - yes, that catalog you peruse through when you forget to bring InStyle or Elle Decor on your flight.

How genius to use it as powder room wallpaper? Very genius.

I'm feeling quite geographic myself these days - I bought a globe at the flea market last month and am planning on a little arts and crafts project to make it sparkle...

Lonny Loves

2011-09-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorite images from the most recent Lonny Magazine!

Master Bedroom Magic

2011-09-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

We've made even more progress on our master bedroom this week! Over the weekend we bought our bed {we bought a navy blue velvet gorgeous bed from Room Service - it will be arriving in 6 weeks!} Yesterday I order my nightstands from Worlds Away {a fantastic wholesale furniture company.} I'm waiting to hear back about how much wallpaper I need, but I'll be getting it from Walnut Wallpaper...

The silhouettes, lamps and sheepskin rugs are already mine - and I can't wait for Jen Ramos to start selling her gold LOVE poster so I can bring in a little more glamour!

Seeing Stars

2011-09-08T07:23:00.000-07:00

As I've mentioned a thousand times last week on the blog, I'm putting stars on the ceiling of my office and I'm so excited, I just can't hide it.

The plan {still} is to use this wallpaper from Osborne & Little.

While researching to make sure this was the right decision for me, I got these adorable samples by Sister Parish from one of my favorite LA design spots, Harbinger.

The size of the stars is too small for my room, but the 4 colorways are too adorable for words.

The fashion world clearly heard that I'm liking stars, because they seem to be rocking stars too.

{top two images Dolce and Gabbana, top left from Bazaar. Bottom image from Atlantic-Pacific, an amazing personal fashion blog if you haven't already checked it out.}

It used to be that interiors trends followed behind fashion trends by a few years, but now I feel like the two go hand in hand... thoughts?

Funky Bath

2011-09-07T07:47:00.000-07:00

These bathrooms in this month's California Home + Design Magazine blew me away {all are from the same home.}

Graffiti sink that was written backwards and can be read using the large mirror on the back of the door.

Love that gorgeous inlay leaning mirror. Perfect bathroom.

The rope pull on the shower door is genius.

Photos by Mariko Reed. Home designed by Erin Martin.

A little laundry poetry

2011-09-06T07:28:00.000-07:00

Roses are red, violets are blue.
My new laundry basket is yellow, my husband's is blue.

Ok, so rhyming blue with blue is not all that special, but I'm just so thrilled to have found such an adorable laundry hamper. I love that the ombre color trend has made it into the laundry world.

With our master bedroom re-design in full swing, my husband cleaned out years of old clothes, leaving plenty of room in our closet to keep our hampers {rather than in our room and in plain view of guests.} We hit the jackpot with these Umbra cuties from The Container Store. Ours are yellow and blue, but with a green and a pink one, there's one for everyone.

Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day! What are you doing with this fabulous Monday off?

I'm with family, enjoying some good food, some good tunes {I'm in a band with my family, so get-togethers inevitably morph into impromptu rehearsals.}

Enjoy your Monday off, hope you get to enjoy the last days of summer...

Source: None via Alissa on Pinterest

Common Thread

2011-09-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Pop quiz: what do all these spaces have in common?

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: twoellie.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Source: paloma81.blogspot.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: thatkindofwoman.tumblr.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Source: anthologymag.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Source: bellemaison23.com via Alissa on Pinterest

Answer: All are gorgeous, modern spaces with a traditional rug. L-O-V-E.

Lovin'

2011-09-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely lovin' this chunk of pyrite (aka Fool's Gold) that I picked up recently at a store closing sale... Can't wait to get my office together so I can show off this gorgeous paper weight!

Matchbook Morning!

2011-09-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

I have spent the past few days taking it easy so I was thrilled to see that a new issue of Matchbook Magazine was out today! A perfect way for me transition back into work mode. Their fall fashion round ups made me hope these hot summer days are numbered (I have some cute J Brand cargo pants I'm excited to wear) and I especially liked their article on silhouette artist Carter Kustera (gorgeous photos by Rachel McGinn.)

I was lucky enough to order some of his silhouettes for my own house a few months ago! That's me and my man.

And my great blogger friend from Rebecca June got a fantastic one of her adorable pup.

Finally!

2011-08-31T07:18:00.000-07:00

Some progress has been made at my house!

If you remember, I decided on robin's egg blue and red (with some gold accents) as the color scheme for my office... I love this as an inspiration image - I'll be painting the walls a similar color and using the same starry-filled wallpaper on my ceiling.

I got some great accent pieces recently - these gorgeous storage boxes from Serena and Lily and this gold pouf from Joss and Main!

And the biggest development of them all - we've chosen a wallpaper for our master bedroom! We love this wallpaper - Petal Pusher by Oh Joy for Hygge & West...

They used the same wallpaper on the Oh Joy episode of Secrets from a Stylist...

Love the blue Madeline Weinrib rug and thinking I'll do a custom headboard in midnight blue - thinking it will be striking against the wallpaper! Can't wait to show you the progress!

Scalloped Edges

2011-08-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

After scoring these sunglasses this weekend at the Barney's outlet, I'm feeling slightly obsessed with scalloped edges...

Source: maisondesfleurs.tumblr.com via Barrett on Pinterest

Source: dappertoad.blogspot.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Source: menageries.tumblr.com via Christian on Pinterest

Source: net-a-porter.com via Bri on Pinterest

Source: designsponge.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Doorstops

2011-08-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

I'm on the hunt for some adorable doorstops for my house (I need three total) and it is SLIM pickin's out there. As a designer, every time I have a hard time finding something attractive, it makes me want to design one myself. So now I'm adding doorstops to the list... But in the meantime, here are my top choices - thoughts?

Clockwise from top left 1. Dachshund 2. Monogrammed Burlap Sack 3. Puppy 4. Owl 5. Birdie Burlap Sack

Leaning towards the owl for my bathroom and the two burlap sacks for the bedrooms (so they won't scratch the hardwood floors when we push them aside...)

Cute Puppy Break

2011-08-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

We interrupt this regularly scheduled interior design post to share some very important adorable puppies.

If you know me, or read my blog or twitter feed regularly, you know I am moderately obsessed with my dog Chapman.

He has been living with us for 6 years, and everyday he puts a huge smile on my face. He's a Japanese Chin, a breed that I rarely see out and about... but now this Louis Vuitton ad has brought these gorgeous pups into the limelight.

Some more gratuitous shots of my dog-child.

Hope you have a puppy-filled Monday!

TGIF

2011-08-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness it's Friday! I think I'll celebrate the weekend by enjoying the great outdoors. If I had an outdoor spot like this, I'd spend all weekend stretched out with a good book, soaking up the sun.

Image via Martha Stewart {and those great pop-of-color pillows are Trina Turk}