The Parts are Sometimes Better Than the Sum: Flowers

Flowers arrived on my sister's doorstep the other day- from a guy she just met.  How sweet and romantic!

Instead of placing one multi-colored bouquet of flowers in the apartment, she spread them out and created mini arrangements all around. They are more stunning than the single bouquet, in my opinion. I do this all the time with my Trader Joes bouquets. 

Which do you prefer? The monochromatic, single flower look or the colorful bouquet? Whichever style you prefer, one thing we can all agree on is the beauty behind a guy delivering flowers to your doorstep after a great first date!

Before and After Living Room: The Impact of Color on Space

 

                 B E F O R E             A F T E R


This is the before and after of my sister's living room. Amazing, isn't it?  She refinished the hardwood floors, painted the walls a very pale gray/blue, installed white window treatments and a new ceiling light, and filled the room with pieces she loves. 

The sofa is Ligne Roset.  The painting was done by my sister.  The vintage bird bath table was purchased at In Bed with HD Buttercup in Hayes Valley.  The chairs are Ikea.  The ghost table and oversized pendant light are both from CB2.  The rug is probably West Elm.

Wait 'til you see what she did with her Alameda Flea faux fireplace mantel- AKA the "fantel."  After the handyman installs it, I'll take a pic.

Color makes a HUGE difference in the feeling of a space doesn't it?

Modern Farmhouse Inspiration at the Inn at Carneros in Napa, CA

I was in Napa Valley the other day and spent some time at the beautiful Inn at Carneros.  I'm working on several urban farmhouse designs right now and found loads of inspiration here.  Although very trendy right now, it's hard not to fall in love with the urban farmhouse look and feel.  I haven't downloaded my own photos from this visit yet, but was so enthralled with the grounds that I had to post something right away.  More photos coming later...

 

 

 

 

Red batten board siding...a metal roof...a row of tiny windows...metal downspouts.  So many sweet farmhouse details.

 

The open air restaurant/lounge area is a great hang-out spot.

 

 

The top row of windows under the roofline caught my eye right away.

 

 

The charming farmhouse cottages meander around a flowering path with views of the hills and vineyards in the background.

 

An outside tub is so charming!

 

The darling cottages with batten board siding and a charming front porch were calling my name.

 

Great yellow door.

 

 

Clean and simple. The diamond pattern in the grass and concrete adds a little something to the minimalist pool.

 

Great windows and doors.  Wish the lights were bigger.

My favorite convenience store