Simple Backyard Lounge

With summer here and a three day weekend in front of us, it makes me want to spend more time outdoors.  I would love to have a patio like blogger Anna Malin's to lounge, read, or have drinks with friends.  It's design is simple and relaxed with a collected feel.  Low maintenance and no fuss can be just the ticket sometimes.  To see more of her beautiful blog and amazing style go to Helt Enkelt (if you can translate swedish...even better). 

Images: Anna Malin

A Collection a Day by Lisa Congdon

There is a new book out there that will appeal to the curiosity in all of us.  It is a book entirely dedicated to personal collections called A Collection a Day.  Originally in blog format at Collectionaday2010.blogspot, artist Lisa Congdon took on a year long project of creatively composing and photographing her many collections.  Each page represents a day of the year and showcases a grouping of items that she has obtained through the course of her life.  On her blog she states that "Most of the collections are real and exist in my home or studio; those I will photograph.  Some are imagined; those I will draw or (occasionally) paint."


A great coffee table or reference book, it is filled with inspiration from the old-fashioned to the odd.  In it you'll find ideas for color, composition, graphic design, packaging, and a whole lot more.

images: UPPERCASE

Furniture Repair: Water Damage

A few weeks back I bought an amazing looking dresser off of Craigslist.  The only problem was that it had some serious water damage and a few scuffs.  I got a great deal because of its condition, but was worried that I wouldn't be able to make it look presentable.  At first, I tried a simple Murphy's Wood Cleaner.  Although it made it shinier, it still had a ton of water spots.  Then, a wonderful Lowe's employee told me that I should try Homax White Ring Remover.  It is a cloth soaked in a miracle solution that you rub on to your furniture and then wipe off.  I only had to use one cloth for my entire dresser which meant that for under $4 I was able to turn my dresser from a disaster to looking like new!  I couldn't recommend this product more.

Stay tuned for the "Before and After." Polishing the hardware this week!

Capiz Shell Pendant Lights

A client of mine is redecorating their little girl's bedroom and I recommended getting a Floral Capiz Shell Pendant to add a soft feminine touch to the room, but also evoke a grown-up elegance.  Because lighting can be rather expensive, I try to invest in pieces that will grow with the client and their needs.  It would be easy to go out and get a pink chandelier, but over time as she transitions from child to teenager her style will most likely change.  By selecting a quality piece that will suite your needs now and in the future you can save yourself time and money down the line (especially in a transitional room).  Check out a few other lovely pieces in the capiz shell family below. 

Images: Jgids.com, Decor Pad, Coastal Living, West Elm

Painted Floors

Images: Sara Story, Design Sponge, Alicia B. Designs, Cottage Living, BHG, Lonny Mag 

A great way to bring a little life into your room is to paint the floor.  Many people don't think about color flooring, but prefer to use accent rugs instead.  Keep in mind that it is not my first choice to go straight to painting hardwood floors, especially when you already have a beautiful floor.  However, as you can see from the pictures below it can enhance the style you already have and reflect your personality in ways that a pecan or mahogany stain can not.

Expedit Bookcase..you are Everywhere!!!!

As you probably have noticed in various interior designs, the Expedit bookcase from Ikea is a very popular storage choice for a lot of people.  It's simple, straightforward design, goes well with almost any style of decor and the ample space it provides is enticing for the book-lover or collector. Check out the fun ways people personalize this best-seller.

Images: Elle Decor, House to Home

Images: Design Sponge, Kishani Perera

Images: Decor Pad, Simplyvonne, Samantha Pynn, Cape27 blog, Ohdeedoh , Almostbunnies, Dozidesign

Store Visit: Hemingway and Pickett

Recently, I stumbled upon a new store in Silverlake called Hemingway and Pickett.  As with many of the shops in this area, there is an indie / bohemian quality to the products with an emphasis on quality and good design. Carrying home accessories, art, jewelry and books the store offers a variety of products that come from local artists as well as Australia.  It is definitely worth a visit to see the reclaimed wood ceiling and to find that unique piece you have been looking for.  Also, stop for lunch at Food + Lab or drop in for a mimosa at Dusty's which are located right next door. Yum!