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Thursday, January 28, 2016

HOME OFFICE DESIGN UPDATE: Shades of Pink With Window Treatment and Accessories


 



Monogram by Everything Embroidered
 (Paramus Park Mall)


Loving my new pink throw purchased at TJ Maxx




***

It all started with "Phase One . . ." of my blog post, with the wallpaper installation in an empty - soon to be my home office.  You can read that post here.

Next, it was the "Home Office Updated Progress . . ." post seen here.  The cabinets were installed and I pulled everything together; minus a chair.

The last post, seen here, included the office chair and accessories.

It has been a long time coming.  Piecing it all together was worth all the effort and wait time.  I have learned from this experience, as well as other experiences, taking your time is key to creating the look you want.  If I rush into something, just to have it, I'm unhappy in the end or shortly thereafter.

The last phase of this home office design was the window treatment.  The owners at my local fabric store (Fabric King in Westwood) recommended a woman, Nancy Joudanin of Curtains Boutique.  Nancy specializes in custom window treatments.  So, after several calls later, a consult appointment, we were on our way to designing this window treatment.

I knew I wanted a soft roman shade in a pale pink fabric.  Finding the right shade of pink was pretty challenging.  There aren't many options for pink fabrics; especially soft or blush colored fabrics. . . surprising, I know!  After finding the fabric, receiving it and having it custom made, I decided I wanted to add a monogram to the shade.  Nancy recommended a place for me, since she was not able to do it herself.  Nancy also recommended adding beading to the bottom.  It's such a pretty detail to the overall design.

I absolutely love the way the roman shade came out.  It's the perfect piece to complete my home office.  Nancy was a joy to work with and communicated with me throughout the entire process.

For accessories, I found, the most perfect blush throw.  I have it over my chair and love to wrap myself around it, when blogging or surfing the web.

And, there you have it!  I think I can officially say, my office is complete!

Thanks for stopping by. . .  If you have any questions about this post, please feel free to comment.  I hope u enjoyed this journey with me and are inspired. 

xo,



Monday, January 25, 2016

WEATHERING WINTER IN STYLE: For the Working Woman



one// two// three// four// five// six// seven


***

Monday is here so soon.  Over the weekend, we survived the first blizzard of the year and are surrounded by mounds and mounds of snow.  We stayed in for most of the weekend, only to let the pups out to play and do their business.  They were loving every minute of the snow!  I, on the other hand, was not.

If you're like me and work for corporate America, knowing how to dress for weather conditions like this is key.  Especially, since business casual attire is mandatory at the workplace.

Here's a look I put together for those of us who travel to work; either by car or other means of transportation.  Traveling and walking through this nasty, winter weather can be a challenge.  Who says you can't do it in style!

xo,




Friday, January 22, 2016

HAPPY FRIDAY!

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Friday is here and looking forward to the weekend.  Although, most of the weekend will be spent indoors.  We are expecting a blizzard!

Wishing you all a safe and happy weekend.  With the impending snow, I am inspired by some of the lovely falling snow images above.

xo,

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

HOME DESIGN: The Guest Room

















Bianca White/Natural Duvet cover (Crate and Barrel); Mongolian Lamb Pillow Cover - Rosette (West Elm) - no longer available in 18" shown but available in 24"; Dodie Animal Print Sham (Ballard Designs); headboard - Target (old); Artwork (West Elm - no longer available); RAST 3-drawer chest (Ikea) - stained and painted; Stockholm rug, flat woven (Ikea); Hunter side table in gold with marble top (One Kings Lane - no longer available); Valla large pendant light fixture (Quoizel); fabric shades (custom via Curtains Boutique).

. . . 

Happy hump day!  Today I'm sharing our guest room update.  If you follow me, I posted back in June, my design idea for this guest room project.  You can see that post here.

The mood board I designed looked like this:


The vision I wanted for this room was a gender neutral design.  The main furnishings in this room are cream and white with dark wood tones and black.  I incorporated touches of blush with a couple of accessories.  I can always change the color, if I wanted later on.  It's as simple as replacing a couple of toss pillows, candles and other accessories.  Metals in gold and silver add to the decor.  Don't limit yourself to silver or gold; mix it up!

Lastly, I worked with Nancy Joudanin from Curtains Boutique, to create custom fabric shades.  Nancy was a pleasure to work with and helped me pick fabric to compliment the space.  We picked a shade similar to the headboard since it's one of the main items in this room that wouldn't be getting replaced.

There's nothing more important, than making sure your guests feel as comfortable as possible.  And, enjoying the decor surroundings is as equally as important.  We previously had our guest room downstairs but moved it upstairs to a larger and brighter space.

While a majority of the room is complete, I would love to add a small accent chair to this guest room.  I also have a DIY mirror project I want to tackle in the Spring.  It's for a wall that's currently bare.  Finally, a slim console table to complete the look.

Thanks for stopping by.

xo,



Tuesday, January 19, 2016

HOME ACCESSORIES: Current Favorites from West Elm

Hi!  Yesterday was a, much appreciated day off from work. I got the rest of my housework done, spent time with the dogs and tested some paint samples. We have plans to have our foyer and stairway painted. Still searching for the right color. 

Onto today's post!  Last week, while reading through the latest issue of House Beautiful magazine, I came across "The Best" section and found the prettiest doorstop from West Elm.  I immediately searched online but it wasn't available . . . yet.  But, over the weekend, it popped up under their new arrivals (yay)!

I've put together a few of my favorites, including the doorstop (#7).  Anything marble has me hooked lately, as well as all the muted color tones.  A couple of weeks ago, I purchased the Mongolian lamb  pillow in the gorgeous blush color (#4 currently sold out in the 16").  West Elm always has the best selections when it comes to home accessories.   I have a collection of accessories, displayed throughout our home.


1.  Glass Leaf Chandelier.  I love the leaf details and vintage vibe of this chandelier.

2.  Round Stone Coasters - White/Gold

3.  Faux Shagreen Trinket Tray - Charcoal.  I purchased a beige colored one a few years ago. Happy to see it's still around.

4.  Mongolian Lamb Pillow Cover - Rosette (24") - (no longer available in the 16").  I was lucky enough to purchase a pair before selling out.

5.  Faceted Mirror - Emerald Cut.  I love the facets; reminds me of a piece of jewelry.

6.  Metallic Ikat Dot Pillow Cover - Platinum

7.  Deco Marble Doorstop.  This would be a perfect piece to add a bedroom or bath.

8.  Deco Marble Umbrella Stand.  Such a stylish umbrella stand.

9.  Belgian Linen Border Strip Sheet Set. These look so comfy and stylish.


To see more new arrivals, click here.

What are some of your favorites?

xo,


Thursday, January 14, 2016

IN THE BEDROOM: Wallpaper Inspiration Designs

So happy the work week is winding down but much to do for the weekend.

I finally ordered the wallpaper for our bedroom.  Our painter is on standby and ready to start as soon as I get the delivery.  The wallpaper delivery can't come fast enough (lol)!

For our master bedroom revamp, one of the features I have planned, is to have the wall, behind our bed, wallpapered in the most beautiful pattern by Carl Robinson.  Here's a sneak peek at the pattern (from a sample, ordered):

I took this snapshot on a rainy day so natural lighting was not the best.
I tried to capture the beautiful metallic details of the feather design.
Here's a picture from the website.  As you can see, the color is different than the actual sample. To add to the beauty, Swarovski crystals are placed on the tips of some of the feathers.


Adding wallpaper to your bedroom can create the ultimate design transformation.  Though, picking the right one can be a challenge.  

Depending on your style and taste, there are hundreds of patterns to choose from.  Endless books to go through.  When I made my choice selection, I knew I wanted something subtle but impactful.  I didn't want anything too trendy or busy.  I also wanted something tranquil for the bedroom.  When I browsed through one of Carl Robinson's books, I came across the sample page of the feather and nearly fell off the chair!  It was exactly the look I wanted and I had to have it. Before jumping on this instinctively, I waited (about six months). I searched for other contenders but kept coming back to this one. 

I've rounded off some different wallpaper designs displayed in the boudoir.

Trellis is very popular now.  Image via A Thoughtful Place

How cute is this wallpaper with the little tree houses.
If you're afraid or undecided about a design pattern, the image above and below are a simple yet beautiful in grass cloth.  Image

Image via Home Bunch
Image via Decor Facil

Soft and subtle design, create a tranquil bedroom. Image via the Decorista

Very popular design right now.  Image via Decorpad

If you are thinking about wallpaper, the best advice I can offer is to not rush. Purchase samples and see how it looks in your room, with your decor. 

There are wallpaper companies that make removable wallpaper for those who can't commit to the other option. 

I would also recommend hiring a professional to install the wallpaper. He or she will go over the details of time, cost and how many rolls you will need. 

And, be sure to check back here, to see the finished look!  


xo,



Tuesday, January 12, 2016

IN THE BEDROOM: Colored Trim Sheet Sets

Hi all!  Since we are planning a slight decor revamp for our master bedroom, one of the items on my list are bedsheets.  I've been on the hunt!  Specifically, the colored trim sheet sets in white or off-white with gray trim.  In addition, adding monogram for a personalized look.

I've rounded up some of my favorites.

Iona Sheet Set in Gray (Birch Lane).  One of my favorites and on the top of my list.

Marisol Sheet Set (Birch Lane).  Love the slight ruffle design but too feminine for the hubs.
Italian Parallel Border Sheet Set (Restoration Hardware)
Italian Double Border Sateen Sheet Set (Restoration Hardware).  Second choice.
Signature Bead Embroidered Percale Bedding (Garnet Hill)

Echelon Home Three Line Hotel Collection Cotton Sateen (Overstock)
Egyptian Cotton with Satin Band (Overstock)
Frette Hotel Analogy (Bloomingdales).  Pretty but a hefty price tag ($650)!
Mattock Avelino (Bloomingdales)
Kate Spade New York 'Grace' (Nordstrom).  King size sold out (sigh).

What are some of your favorites?  Any recommendations?

xo,