Day 9 of 10

Did anyone get to finish a good book this holiday weekend?

Books are such a wonderful thing to hold in your hand, and flip through each page as you get pulled into a story.  But where do you keep them?  Here's some interesting ways to store and organize your books and magazines.

core77

Only Deco Love

Buzzfeed

Svpply

The Warn House

Huffington Post

Have you been inspired by one of these atypical bookcases?  

* Remember, together we had the goal to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.   Let's see how many more can we reach by Labor Day- just one day left!  Here's the link to the FB page

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SOURCES

*Links below each photo

Day 8 of 10

I found this photo on Pinterest last week.  Someone pinned it onto their own board today, so I thought I'd share it with you.  Shabby Chic anyone?

This living room is totally eclectic, and totally perfect.  This shabby chic style starts with the weathered white siding and the crystal chandelier.  Need I say more?  Well, I will anyway!  The white sofa is contemporary, but the throw pillows with pastel make it more feminine and casual.  The country style end tables mixed with the industrial side chair 'missmatch' so well.   The warm wood tones on the pastel side chair repeat in the golden pillow on the sofa.  The rustic storage unit on the wall relates to the stump and the wood floors.  Lastly, the surprise of the black and white stripe rug takes it to another level.  It's very graphic compared to the other pieces in the room, yet it repeated the horizontal stripes of the siding on the walls.

This eclectic shabby chic style would be a lovely apartment to live in, or a great coffee house or tea shop to meet with friends in the afternoon, don't you think?

To see this pin, and other shabby chic, cottage styles visit my Pinterest board - charming COTTAGE

* Remember, together we had the goal to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.   Let's see how many more can we reach by Labor Day.  Here's the link to the FB page



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SOURCES

Photo:  Marsipan og smilefjes

Day 7 of 10

Happy Friday!

Lets take a moment to talk about a room we spend so much time in, but maybe don't appreciate as much- the bathroom.

I've seen several photos of this bathroom circulating around Pinterest.  I even had two different perspectives of it on my board!  I love every last detail, but tonight I want to talk about pattern.  

This small bathroom is able to carry so much pattern because each pattern is a different size.  The floor tile is a large scale pattern, and very bold.  This is obviously the focal point of this design.  Classic white subway tiles on the wall are the perfect compliment to the floor.  I'm not usually a fan of dark grout with white tile, but it works seamlessly here.  The subtle pattern reads more like a texture rather than a bold graphic, such as the floor tile.  This is the medium scale pattern.  There is also a solid black tub, and solid a solid white sink- places for the eyes to rest a moment.  And then there is a small scale pattern on the striped turkish towel.  Don't you like the fringe detail?

So, even in the smallest of bathrooms, the balance and scale of patterns can truly transform your space.  

To see this pin, and other vignettes that transport me for moment, visit my Pinterest board - a SNAPSHOT

* Remember, together we had the goal to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.   Let's see how many more can we reach by day 10.  Here's the link to the FB page


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SOURCES

Photo: Curbly

Day 6 of 10

Wow, it's only day 6, and 12 new people have already joined the FB page- Thanks everyone!!




It's late already, so I'll keep it quick tonight~

Everyone loves a well-put together gallery wall, but what's the secret?!  I found that uniting different frame sizes with a common color works well, but you should also add a detail for some dimension.

This vignette is great from the black door to the black mattes in the frames, but that's not what I'm going to discuss tonight.  Here is a way to mix up your gallery wall.  Why not try using a traditional   picture rail or picture ledge?  Sound too obvious?  Don't be embarrassed, this traditional detail was common in old homes, but doesn't exist in today's new builds.  A picture rail is a strip of molding that you hang pictures from that keeps you from poking holes all over the walls.  Here, a piece of molding serves as a shelf to display a variety of prints.  Below, a collection of frames are assembled in a stepped pattern.  Now you have two planes, creating depth and visual interest, to show your favorite photos and prints. 

So, think twice about your gallery wall, and add some dimension with a picture ledge.

To see this pin, and others that are my style, visit my Pinterest board - my style, RIGHT NOW

* Remember, together we had the goal to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.   Let's see how many more can we reach by day 10.  Here's the link to the FB page


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SOURCES

Photo: Oh Happy Day

Day 5 of 10

Let's simplify tonight.  Let's get down to the basics.  Black and white.

I just came across this today when I was on Pinterest during my lunch.  It is so peaceful...And even though this vignette is black and white, it feels warm.  The ash tone wood floors have just enough "umph" to keep this room from being stark.  The wall paneling is a traditional element, but the geometric pattern is modern.  The slip-covered sofa looks so soft, and that throw pillow could not be more plump.  The strong lines of the black side table, and the industrial floor lamp greatly contrast the curves of the sofa.  This would be a style for a weekend getaway from the city.  This would be somewhere to take a breath, and reconnect with yourself.

Simplifying your color palette down to the most basic, black and white, can turn traditional and industrial styles in to a modern space.

For more black and white images, visit my opposites ATTRACT board on Pinterest.

* Remember, together we're trying to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.  Here's the link to the FB page

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SOURCES

Photo: Tumblr

Day 4 of 10

It might come as a surprise to most people, but I'm not a huge fan of Mid-century style furniture...(GASP!...)  It's alright, just close your dropped jaw, and let me explain.  I agree that this style can has some beautiful lines, but so many time I think people go overboard, and then it just feels like a room from the 1950s.  I really love the mix of Mid-century design with other styles, because then it really POPS!

I really do love the mix in this conversation area.  The first thing I see is this beautiful reclaimed-wood wall.  That is gorgeous!  I love all the different wood tones, and the perfect imperfections that it brings.  The color accents add a bit more personality, and make me think of an old barn, or maybe it came from the siding of an old shop- it sparks my curiosity.  A pair of white Eames molded plastic chairs frame the light-filled window.  The coffee table fits right in with these chairs- it's light and airy.    The marled fabric upholstered on the sofa contrasts with the sleek white furniture.  And I always think a grey sofa fits well into almost any space (just like my own).  Lastly, we get just a touch of an industrial feel with the exposed ceiling and electrical, as well as the clear hanging pendant.

I hope you'll forgive me for my earlier statement, but appreciate the context in which I do truly appreciate the Mid-century modern style.


* Remember, together we're trying to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.  Here's the link to the FB page


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SOURCES

Photo - Apartment Therapy , by Julia Robbs

Day 3 of 10

I just returned from grocery shopping with my husband.  He's unloading the food while I write this post, then I'm making dinner.  Sounds fair, don't you think?

Green was speaking to me tonight....flowers of broccoli, tall asparagus, french cut green beans (my new favorite), and crinkle cut zucchini.  So, this caught my eye soon as I ventured onto Pinterest.

First of all, I love the light flooding into this dining space.  The light wood floors bring a rustic touch through the room.  White is repeated three times here: the island, buffet, and of course the dining table, which is featured here.  I gave quite a lead in, but do you see the pop of color tying the whole space together?  Yup- it's green!  My eye is drawn to the green glass vase with plants sprouting out.  Green is repeated on the back wall with the coat rack, and again with a small collection of containers on the island.  The power of color is even uniting the mix of chair styles at the table.  Both have slim silhouettes, but one is a solid back and the other has a splat down the center.  So, the key to this eclectic room with furnishing from rustic floors to a traditional buffet, and from scandinavian  to industrial chairs, is the repetition of two colors: white and green.

Have you used the repetition of color to mix n' match different styles together in your space?

* Remember, together we're trying to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.  Here's the link to the FB page

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SOURCES

Photo - My Scandinavian Home

Day 2 of 10

Hello again- surprised to see me so soon?

I realized that I need to do my part in the 10 in 10 Challenge  - so I'm going to post something for you each day till September 1st- our deadline!

Well, after getting re-routed to four different customer service agents with the phone company, I had to break free and do something fun.  And what is more fun than Pinterest?!

This is such a great space that shows how to mix it UP.  Firstly, I love this peaches n cream wall (plus it gives your complexion a healthy glow).  The walls are so crisp and clean, and the natural fiber chair  is the perfect contrast.  Next my eye roams over to the pile of pillows.  A mint and pink color blocked design,  a blue and white geometric, a peach cream floral, a solid bright yellow, and one more geometric print hiding at the bottom.  These work together in a quirky way because they have a balance of scale, from solid to medium print, to a small floral print.  Oh, and that gorgeous rug!  This rug not only anchors the furniture on the white floor, but it incorporates all the colors, so it all makes sense!

This diamond rug would work great in a bedroom as shown, or living room, or playroom.  Where would you put it?

* Remember, together we're trying to reach 10 "likes" in 10 days.  Here's the link to the FB page




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SOURECES

Photo - Oh Joy!

10 in 10

Hi everyone~

I hope you have enjoyed reading my re-designed blog "missmatch INTERIORS" for the past several months.  I'm having a lot of fun with this new spin on design.

I want to thank everyone who has subscribed by email, followed me on Pinterest, or liked me on Facebook.  So, I hope you are up for a challenge with me!

Together, we just reached 50 "likes" on my Facebook Page for this blog.  I'd like to set the goal of reaching 60 "likes"by Labor Day, September 1st.  That's 10 "likes" in 10 days

Share a post on your own page, or tell a friend- this would be a fantastic push for the end of summer!

Copy the link below:
Facebook Page - missmatch INTERIORS


Have a great weekend~

PS....it's not like I'm challenging you to pour a bucket of ice on your head!  (btw...I think I'm doing that soon- eek!)

library.....CHECK!

Summertime is the perfect season to go on a picnic.  Last weekend I went to a concert in the park with my husband and a friend.  We did not have our own checker print picnic blanket, but I did see them laid out around the Pritzker Pavillion lawn.  So I thought I would do a series of collections inspired by the all American check pattern.


When I think of checks I think of the Ralph Lauren look.  I think of horses racing fast at the race tracks.  I think of confidence and stability.  I think of a cozy space with a good reading chair.  I think of a place for in-depth conversation, and where the men retreat to for after-dinner drinks.  I see an old set of encyclopedia, and a collection of books collected through the years.

                           

                                         
It only makes sense then that I design a home library.  Ironically, my first selection wasn't a checker print- weird, right?  I wanted to start with the largest piece of furniture in the room, which would be the bookcase.  To keep the room from feeling too traditional I decided on a mid-century style bookcase.  The warm wood tones really welcome you into the space, and the slender profile is not over bearing in a small room.  I also like that it has open and closed storage so you can highlight your favorite books and collectibles.  Next I looked for an area rug for the reading nook to feel cozy on your feet.  I found this traditional oriental rug from... you guessed it- Ralph Lauren Home. The blues and reds have the Americana appeal, plus it pulls in the warm tones of the bookcase.









After the rug, I also found the perfect artwork to be featured on the wall.  I'm by no means an animal lover, but this horse print has an essence of strength, independence, and ambition which I'm really attracted to.  The black and white is also classic.  Finally it was time for my checker print.  Initially I was planning to feature that in my drapery, but instead decided to upholster a chair in it.  I think it's the perfect dose of checks that keep the room feeling more contemporary.  And of course the room needed a handsome leather chair- it just feels right!  I chose a solid copper pillow to break up some of the pattern, and used a blue pillow to tie into the leather chair.  I also brought in a round ottoman to repeat the circle stitched in the pillow and the medallions in the rug.  Now we have repetition of the wood tones and the color blue, as well as circles, to bring this collection together.  I added an industrial floor lamp, and simple linen draperies to finish off the room.  The linen draperies repeat the ottoman fabric, and also brighten up the space.

I really love how this 'missmatch' library came together.  Can you cozy up with your favorite book in this Handsome Checker Collection?

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SOURCES

Shirts - Ralph Lauren

Bookcase -  West Elm

Rug - Ralph Lauren Home

Horse print - Pottery Barn

Checker chair - Ethan Allen

Leather chair - Ethan Allen

Copper pillow - Crate&Barrel

Blue pillow - Target

Round ottoman - All Modern

Floor lamp - West Elm

Drapery - Restoration Hardware

radiant ORCHID

I know this isn't breaking news, but I just wanted to take a moment and remind you of the dynamic Pantone Color of the Year, 2014 - Radiant Orchid.

“While the 2013 color of the year, PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald, served as a symbol of growth, renewal and prosperity, Radiant Orchid reaches across the color wheel to intrigue the eye and spark the imagination,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “An invitation to innovation, Radiant Orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today’s society.” (Pantone.com)

The great thing about PANTONE 18-3224 Radiant Orchid is that there are so many possibilities.  It has both pink and purple undertones, so it can lean both ways and take on different personalities.  It can be soft and soothing, or loud and vibrant.

I love this color family, and I think it works best as accents in a space, to really let it pop!

      

Here are some ways to use Radiant Orchid within Interior Design.  Take a look at this beautiful bathroom.  It jumps out, right at you! I see this in a very chic hotel, maybe in Las Vegas..It look s so modern and luxurious.  I wouldn't want to live in the space each day, cause I'm sure I'd be late for work ~

This bedroom is a bit more realistic for real life, don't you think?  I love the walls as a blank canvas, and a neutral beige on the floor.  This orchid has more of a pink undertone, like magenta.  It really brings some feminine flare and warmth in to this space.  Platinum and charcoal grey are a great background for this color.  See, you don't need a lot of one color for it to stand out.

I really do love Radiant Orchid, especially when it's almost electric, like in these orchids shown below.  It's just mesmerizing...and fills me with a burst of energy and creativity (just like Pantone says it would).  It's actually the color of the lines on my resume the last few years.  I'm not trying to say I predicted this trend.....but let's just say I know my colors!

Have you embraced Pantone's Color of the Year, 2014 in your home?  I'd love to hear your twist on it~

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SOURCES:

Pantone chip drive - Pantone

Color swatches - weddingbee

Polkadot pillow - zazzle

Pendant light - Lamp Plus

Chair - Mum's Grapevine - Pinterest

Bathroom - windy

Bedroom - My Interior Design

Orchids - Suzette Fox Interior Design