abode love: a man's home is his wife's castle

peer pressure leads to a donkey, donkey

2012-03-08T05:38:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Thursday! I realize that I've talked a lot about match holders lately, but I'm not done yet. I mean, who even knew there WAS such a thing a few weeks ago, and now I'm obsessed! Not only am I obsessed, but I'm ~~encouraging~~ downright pushing others do drink the koolaid. My sweet blogger friend and co-worker Katie Beth from The Good Stuff was peer pressured by yours truly to purchase one of my favorite match holders that I blogged about last week. I then begged her to take a photo of it and send it my way to share with all of my abode lovers.

I mean, stop it. I love my jaaaag, but this precious little donkey is making me want to go over to Katie Beth's abode in the middle of the night and STEAL it. As my Super Mom says about sweet things, this donkey is straight up hurting my feelings.

I love that there's a hand painted feel to this little munchkin. I also love the tone of green in the saddle bags-- it goes right along with my love of the color green right now.

A big thank you to my sweet friend Katie Beth from The Good Stuff for giving in to peer pressure and purchasing this donkey. He has made my week a little more magical... thank you, you sweet little ass.

I got that jaaaag.....

2012-03-07T05:53:00.001-08:00

Hey there abode lovers and hooray for hump day! Wednesdays are the best, they give me hope that I can make it to Friday. We're almost there, we're almost there, we're almost there....

Anyway, get excited abode lovers, the jaguar/leopard mystery has been solved and the beginning of a new life with a show-stopping match holder has begun. Welcome to the abode jag, welcome.

Even after Mister Husband went to the trouble of gathering long matches, they were all falling out of jag's mouth when he arrived at the abode. So, Mister Hubbs went back out to the store and picked up a whole carton of emerald green tipped wooden matches. I tried to go myself on my lunch break and the guy at CVS was beyond confused. He tried to hand be a book of matches--- trying to explain to him why those wouldn't work was just ridiculous, so I left and handed the responsibility over to the Mister.

Here's a view from above. I love that photo of my little brother that I took in college.... so precious! It's quite the contrast to that ferocious jag but I love the pairing.

Can you see me glaring into my iPhone while I take this photo of my mini foyer? That's so attractive... ha! I just wanted to give you guys a good look at where the jag is living now.

Hope all of you abode lovers have a great Wednesday!

feeling busty

2012-03-06T05:56:00.002-08:00

Happy Tuesday abode lovers! Anyone watching Smash on NBC? Me and my girlfriends are LOVING it and last night was goooood. I am all about some Katherine McPhee, as one of my sweet friends said, she's totally the "girl crush" of the month. And speaking of girl crushes.... anyone else digging a good bust lately? Why am I asking you that? Well, because I've been spotting busts all over the interwebs and have been dying to get my own, amazing bust into the abode! So, I want all of you to check out all of these amazing spaces that are made more interesting and timeless with the use of busts!

Oh yes. This is the first space that I saw where the bust really struck me. As soon as I saw that pretty lady's profile, I decided I HAD to get a lady bust! I think that the styling of this simple, clean bookshelf is flawless. I love all of the whites paired with reds, oranges, and corals. LOVE this.

This gentleman is so charming. Look at that hat. I mean, hell-o-o. This manly bust is pretty striking! The combination of new and modern verses classic and traditional in this space makes it feel fresh and timeless.

Isn't this little gal pretty? I think she does a great job of showing off her jewels. I love how petite this bust is, it's such a great statement sitting on top of that glass jewelry box.

Do you see that kind sir sitting on the bookshelf? He is too cute in this feminine space. He seems kind of flirty in there... like he would make sure you had a drink in your hand and a smile on your face. What a great host that little guy seems to be...

Let's be real. This guy looks a bit like a creeper... but I would welcome him with open arms into my abode. Look how interesting he is sitting in that window. I think he and my little jaguar match holder would get along splendidly.

This is a different kind of bust- it's hanging on the wall, but still super fabulous. I think this pretty lady grounds the entire gallery wall and really allows your eye to rest within the gallery of art.

The layered quality of all of this beautiful art is stunning. The bust sitting on the bookshelf fits in perfectly to this backdrop and adds a nice pop of 3 dimensional art to this art-rich collage! (I'd also like to grab that bag... wowza!)

That gal is perfect sitting on top of those books- I love that this bust is small and imperfect.

Here's another pretty bust draped in jewelry. If you've got a bust of a pretty girl like this, draping her with jewels and setting her in a "dressing" area makes perfect sense.

I love this feminine figure in this super dramatic, dark, and rustic space. I feel like the pretty gal and the curves of the large shell add just the right amount of fem to balance out all of the deep, masculine tones in this dining space. Anyone notice the tiny little bust sitting over by the pretty female bust? So precious.

Look at her, or is that a him? It doesn't really matter I guess, it's pretty amazing. I love that it's centered on the nonworking fireplace. It creates a great focal point in this space.

These two girlfriends definitely soften the look of this tv area. I swear, I hate a big, black tv, but THIS is the way to style it! I like how the black lampshade softens the look of the tv by repeating the black into the foreground. I also love the playful objects that lie below the tv, like those two pretty little busts. Love this!

This is such a bright and colorful office space. I have a feeling that working within a space like that allows all kinds of brilliant ideas to blossom! I love the bust on one side of the bookcase and horse bookends on the other- it's a nice break from all of the books!

That is quite a hat. Wow. I love that gal in the corner. She really adds interest to an otherwise uninteresting corner. I also love how this whole space is monochromatic, using shades of cream and white. It feels so rich, yet light because of all of the layering. Don't you just love that the only color in this space is seen on the bookshelf? I do!

This girl is great. She's checking herself out and I think it's super charming.

This is a bit different than the standard bust, I mean, she's a lamp. But I still love what this figure does for this gorgeous and eclectic vignette. I wouldn't typically think that centering a lamp on a table like this would work, but what can I say, I love lamp, and I think it's perfectly natural that she should be front and center!

Now, get ready abode lovers. I am pretty much obsessed with these busts/planters.

Where oh WHERE could these work in MY abode!?! I feel like this couple is just too much and I would love for them to live in my humble abode. Perhaps they would work in my bathroom? They are such a statement- and I love quirky items such as these. Perhaps this could go on my wish list for my birthday this summer???

You can get this precious pair via Floral Art LA for $300, or $150 for each.

Well, I hope all of you abode lovers are digging busts as much as I am! Do any of you have any already hanging around your abode? Just curious. I hope all of you have a terrific Tuesday!

friday tudor fabulousness

2012-03-02T09:49:00.001-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Friday! YES, the weekend is almost here! Anyhow, I pinned this abode not long ago and was just directed to the oh-so-fabulous before and after of this gorgeous tudor home outside of Boston thanks to Rachel Grace of raenovate. LDa architecture & interiors is responsible for this gorgeous abode!

This may be my favorite portion of this beautiful abode... the staircase railings, all of the trim detail, the light fixture, leaded windows and oversized, bright, modern artwork really make this space eye candy!

I love how all of the woodwork was painted white except for the wooden window casings. I LOVE this look.

Anyone else drooling over this home?!? I think the transformation is incredible and HAD to share it with all of my abode lovers! I hope you guys have a great weekend!

mystery solved!

2012-03-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Thursday! Remember my cry for help yesterday? Well, after countless hours of searching on Ebay & Etsy, one of my abode lovers came to the rescue! My friend Kat from Auburn contacted me and sent me a link to this fabulous Vintage Italian Pottery Jaguar Cheetah Figurine Head Ashtray Trinket Holder! Bahaha... did anyone know that this little jewel had such a long name?!? I thought it was hilarious-- thank you so much Kat! You saved me from becoming a crazy lady obsessed with an ash tray... Now, I'm a crazy lady waiting for this sweet puppy to arrive in the mail! That's right abode lovers, it's coming to the abode! I'll take photos and post as soon as it arrives.

And all this time I was calling this a match holder.... who knew!?!

In similar news, I got up this morning to go to work and found this sitting on the kitchen counter. There's nothing better than having Mister Husband read my blog every now and then and finding a way to get me the weird ass things that I become obsessed with.... which is why he supplied me with long matches for the "match holder" that I was hunting.

I'll still need more long matches to fill up that little Jaguar's mouth, but Mister Hubbs got me started!

So, are you sad that you didn't snag this beauty before I did? Are you now also obsessed with match holders? Well, you're in luck abode lover. As I was hunting yesterday I ran across a ton of great options that may or may not be better than my little jag. Check them out!

Vintage Metal Alpaca Double Toothpick Match Holder

I'm obsessed with this alpaca. He has TWO places to stash matches and I may become a match holder hoarder, swoop in and snag this guy as well. I mean, He's presh.

Here's a sterling silver option as well

Vintage Japan Hinode Girl Porcelain Toothpick Holder

This little gal has got some charm. Look at those gold metallic shoes! I love how quirky this little piece is! I think that this baby could be used (with a thin layer of pebbles in the bottom) as a mini planter for succulents.

Antique Small Metal Shoe Toothpick Holder, Brass

Brass is big right now as many of you abode lovers know, this would be a great little trinket to add to a bookshelf to add that pop of trendy gold to your space!

Vintage Shonfeld Mule Jackass Donkey with Saddlebags

Shut the front door. I mean, come on. This little ass is WAY too cute. I feel like this little guy could be at Anthropologie and kind of wish, again, that it wouldn't be totally weird to start a match/toothpick holder collection.

I hope all of you abode lovers have a fabulous Thursday and thanks so much for your comments yesterday!

match holder mystery

2012-02-29T05:26:00.001-08:00

I love, love this leopard match holder that appeared in Lonny in the Dec/Jan issue. Where oh where can I find one? I searched Ebay, Etsy, Google... gah. Anyone have any suggestions? I just love little, quirky nuggets of gold such as this. I also love the smell of matches when I light up my fabulous candles around the abode.... I know that may sound weird, but it's why I need a place to hold matches!

There he is sitting on the table to the right... taunting me.

I did find this sweet little pipe match strike via Jonathan Adler for $42 bones... perhaps I should give up on the leopard head already and find another home for my matches. What do you think???

I could stash these tall boys in my pipe....

So, what do we think abode lovers??? Should I keep looking out for a leopard head? Hope all of you have a happy Wednesday!

beni ourain moroccan rugs

2012-02-28T06:05:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Tuesday! Last night as I was shoveling rocky road, Blue Bell ice cream into my mouth and watching the oh-so-dramatic Bachelor, I was clicking through some of my favorite inspiration images and one thing kept reappearing in the images.... beni ourain moroccan rugs. It's an absolute mouthful and I'm most likely botching it every time I type it... but they're AMAZING rugs that are oober expensive and oober amazing. Check out these fluffy lookers...

Not only does this milky space contain a gorgeous beni ourain moroccan rug, but it contains a lush fiddle leaf fig tree. It's such a fresh look in this monochromatic space and makes such a big impact. I love the layered look in this living room-- all of the different textures of cream and white laying on top of one another really makes for a rich, comfortable space. Don't you just love the braided tassels on the edges of this rug?!?

This is quite a serious space if you asked me... I'm not sure I would be lounging around in this living room, but it's beautiful. The bold, yet soft pattern on the beni ourain moroccan rug grounding this space adds some much needed texture, pattern and softness into this space.

I LOVE this unexpected pattern in the oversized beni ourain moroccan rug seen in this large living room. I love that the pattern is imperfect and non-symmetrical, I think it adds quite a bit of charm to this space. If I were to purchase one of these beautiful rugs, I would definitely want this imperfect, quirky look.

I'm pretty crazy about this room. I mean, hello gorgeous gallery wall full of artwork. I mean, hell-o. I love that the beni ourain moroccan rug feels like another piece of art in the space. Again, the imperfect and non-symetrical pattern in the rug. I think this space is packed with style and interesting pieces.

This is quite a living room. I love all of the charm packed into this space. The wood panelling from floor to ceiling seems like it would be just too much, but the way this space is styled, it works! The beni ourain moroccan rug really helps to break up all of the dark toned wood and bring a softness to the space. The floor to ceiling aqua drapes help soften the space as well. I'm crazy about all of the quirky pieces in this room... the ship chandy, the mod, orange chair sitting by the fireplace, the lovely painting of the vixen over the mantel and the bust sitting on top of the column really do it for me.

I am crazy about this gorgeous space. The black and whites are so dramatic and I love touches of orange, red and amber that really make the room warm and welcoming. Again, that beni ourain moroccan rug is killin' it in this space. This super eclectic space is so fun and pulls together so many different styles seamlessly.

Oh yeah, pale minty green meets rich, hunter green. What a lovely combination that would have honestly never occurred to me! If this room were painted any other color I feel that it would look outdated... the pale mint really elevates the bedroom and makes it feel relevant.

This mid century modern space is all about clean lines and simplicity. I love that the beni ourain moroccan rug adds another flavor to this space. I feel like this style can get very sterile and unwelcoming... but the moroccan rug really adds a level of comfort and unexpected spice to this otherwise rather plain space.

If any of you know me at all... you know I'm a bit crazy over what stripes can do for a space. I've got plenty of stripes packed into my little abode... anyway... this space uses stripes in all of the right ways! The horizontal striped drapes elongate the wall of windows on the right side of the space, and the beni ourain moroccan rug's stripes also elongate the space by drawing your eye from the front of the room all the way to the fireplace. The rug gives the illusion that the space is even larger than it actually is... THAT is why I love stripes! They play such lovely tricks on the eye!

This lovely living room looks SO comfortable. I am all about the soft color palette in this space. The beni ourain moroccan rug fits right in with the taupes, whites, creams, blacks and browns that fill this space. I love all of the layering of monochromatic tones in this room-- it makes it feel very comfortable and welcoming. I love that the beni ourain rug adds a subtle, graphic pattern into this space.

So-- are you obsessed with the look of this rug yet??? Well, you're in luck! West Elm is offering beni ourain style rugs and they're gorgeous! They're also a little more friendly on the wallet. (They're still a bit pricey in my book... but these rugs aren't cheap anywhere!!!)

Found Moroccan Berber Rug $1499

Found Moroccan Berber Rug, $2499

They did offer a Souk Rug as well that was just GORGEOUS... but it's no longer available :( boo. I tell you what, these babies are flying off the shelves! I hope all of you abode lovers have a fabulous Tuesday!

brilliant buffalo

2012-02-24T06:13:00.002-08:00

Hello, good morning and happy Friday abode lovers! I am SO glad that the weekend is almost here. I know I've been MIA for a while, but sometimes, life just gets in the way! My apologies abode lovers... to make up for my absence, I am going to smother you with gorgeous home interiors this lovely Friday. Specifically, I'm going to smother you with buffalo check. It's great, you'll love it!

There is something so lovely, comfy and preppy about buffalo check that will never go out of style. This pattern works in every color and can really add a pop of graphic pattern in your space-- especially when the buffalo check is large in scale. Don't you just love this little nook? As many of you know, I've been going ga-ga over anything green lately-- and this green/navy combo is doing it, and doing it well. I love the mix of patterns in this little nook!

Hello buffalo check kitchen floor.... I love this! I'm also really digging that stainless, drawer-covered island topped with blue, matte, oversized pendants. There's a part of me that really wants the outer cabinets to be painted another color-- but the space overall is killin' it.

Presh. Just presh. I think if you have a room like this in your abode you can only expect that two sweet little girls with stuffed animals will be jumping on the beds and giggling! I am crazy about red and white buffalo check with gray walls. I think this combination is unexpected and stops the red and white check from being too "picnic-table-esque" This is definitely the way to do red and white buffalo check!

I've always loved this living space that opens up to his and hers office spaces.... It's just so good. Among the million things to adore in this space, two buffalo checked chairs sit and wait to be gawked upon. I will do it. They are fantastic. This pair of chairs really adds a nice level of comfort and ease to the space-- I think there's nothing more easy-going than a slipcovered buffalo check chair... don't you just want to sit down, relax and watch Twilight??? (maybe that last part's just me...)

Just when you think buffalo check is just for comfy, cozy relaxing spaces.... I show you this glamorous little bedroom. I think this space is so charming. I love that antique headboard- I think the shape really adds a glamorous feel to the room. I love that the end of the bed is topped off with a fuzzy, chocolate and white buffalo check blanket.

Black and white buffalo check wingback??? Don't mind if I do.

Here's another bedroom that tops off the end of the bed with a buffalo check blanket. I love the layered colors and patterns in this lovely space. I think the teal really makes this room sing, but I also can't ignore the super preppy buffalo check mixed with a pinstripe and plaid... love it.

Buffalo checked walls... love this look. I also really love the Honest Abe artwork flanking the sofa... the green in those pieces really look amazing with the plum touches throughout the space.

This is SO fun. There's nothing about this little nook that I don't love. I think if I were going to add buffalo check to my abode... I would do it like this. Black and white and BOLD beyond belief. I so love that this red and white horizontal striped chair is living in this space. It's so preppy, bright and fun. I also think it compliments the black and white buffalo check and stops the space from looking too country.

Ugh. So pretty, the classic lines of this chair are immediately softened with this little navy and white buffalo check slip cover. I love the exposed ties-- I would LOVE a little chair like this in my bedroom!

Many of you may watch Sarah's House on HGTV... I sure do. That Sarah, she can do no wrong. Anyway, you know her trusty, super cute sidekick Tommy? Well, this is in his lovely abode... don't you just LOVE it??? If buffalo check is good enough for Tommy, it's good enough for me!

This is the space that made me take a second look at buffalo check. I LOVE this nursery like a crazy person. I mean, there's nothing about this little space that I don't adore. I love, love the salmon/peach and red combination and I just can't stop LOVING how perfectly that red and white buffalo check chair looks in this space! I mean, without the red and white check in the space, it's not nearly as playful and quirky. Oooooh... it's just SO good.

I hope you're loving buffalo check as much as I am! I hope you have a wonderful Friday and an amazing weekend abode lovers!

LOVE in the abode...

2012-02-14T06:36:00.001-08:00

Hello abode LOVERS and Happy Valentines Day to all of you! I am celebrating all of the loves in my life today and hope that all of you are doing the same! Family, friends, Mister Husband and of course my pups. Last night Mr. Hubbs and I went to see The Vow for an early V-Day present for me :) Mr. Hubbs wasn't super pumped about it, but he knew I wanted to see it (thanks hubs)... tonight we will be lounging around and NOT going out on the busiest date night of the year. Anyone else taking it easy??? Anyway, I thought we should celebrate super "valentine-y" looking spaces today... so here you are. Enjoy!

Love this sweet space. I think the stripes are fun and really elongate this space. I think the pale watery aqua color is such a beautiful contrast to the reds used in this space. Anyone else loving that chandelier?? I think it is just SO sweet.

Love that red, pink and orange rug. It adds a ton of color to the space and once again, the stripes elongate the space big time. Those pinky-toned chairs are quirky and add a retro feel to the dining area- and isn't the lighting so fun?

If there was no Mister Husband... I could see this color palette working beautifully in my abode. But let's be honest, life is better with a Hubbs around to balance out all of my femininity. BUT, I still love the soft pink silk drapes and that pale pink armoire.

Wowza. Hello red wall, really, really bright red wall. I think that this little nook works because of the huge mirror to break up the large red wall. I also think that the pale, rustic wood tones in this space even out the harsh quality that this color red can have within a space. The rustic tones of the floor, console and basket really take the edge off...

I LOVE this living room. That red and coral stripes sofa topped with a gorgeous tapestry is just too pretty and it adds so much life into this super neutral space. I think the only reason that the sofa works at all is because of the creamy tones that it's surrounded with. Anyone just dying to take a seat on that beauty???

I'm quite certain I've shared this image on Abode Love before, but it's a goodie! I freakin' love this bright and daring space. I think that the golden hues in the fabrics, frames and artwork ground this space so that it doesn't feel like we're staring into Barbie's dream house! Isn't that large scale chevron chair just to die for??? The answer is "yes."

I love a pink that has a bit of a purple undertone. It's such a warm and rich color. The quilts, lampshades and pillows really make this space sing. I love that the whole space is all about mixing very feminine color and prints with the caramel tone that's seen in the rug, upholstered beds and the bamboo shades. The combination is simply lovely!

Gold, pink, white and black. This is one girly space-- and I LOVE it.

You can't have a whole blog post about pink spaces without including a gorgeous little girl's room. Wouldn't you have died to have a room like this as a little one? I love that it's a kid room packed full of sophistication. The artwork is whimsical and sweet but the way it's been framed and hung really takes the space up a notch. I also love the unexpected black, leather tufted chair beside the bed and the black and white patterned wall to wall carpeting.

The rich caramel wooden beams on the ceiling is the perfect tone to go with the coral walls in this amazing bathroom. I think this may be my favorite bathroom of all time. I am loving the tile- it's spectacular. Also- check out that gorgeous vanity. This would be a very do-able DIY with any great antique table. Just add a sink and a towel bar and you're good to go. I also LOVE the casual feel of the leaning mirror instead of hanging it on the wall. Goodness gracious, I die.

How fun is this dining room. The upholstered chairs at the head and foot of the table bring so much personality into this fresh, bright space. The side chairs are all different and I love that they've all been painted red to make a cohesive set.

I think I may have saved the best for last. This space is so classic and romantic... and then you see that hot pink, super mod chair. I LOVE it. Not only is the color unexpected, but the style is so vastly different than it's surroundings that it just works. I love these unexpected moments in a home... it's what brings personality, a sense of humor and light-heartedness to a space. Hello charming!

Well, I hope all of you abode lovers have a fabulous and love-filled Valentines Day!

thanks for the love!

2012-02-13T05:49:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Monday! We're one day from Valentines day and over the weekend, I was given some love from Desire to Inspire! Thank you so much for including Abode Love in the "Sharing the Love Reading Guide"! Head over and check out this great list of 25 yummy blogs... you won't regret it!

Wahoo! Happy Valentines to me. Thanks for the love Desire to Inspire... way better than chocolate, way way better. Happy Monday abode lovers!

meet Charmaine!

2012-02-08T05:54:00.000-08:00

So, remember our talk about Panton chairs yesterday? Well, one of my fabulous abode lovers let me know that she is lucky enough to have 4, yes 4 Panton chairs in her lovely abode! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw her gorgeous home. Hello beautiful! So, Charmaine, from My Best Friend Craig, is sweet enough to open her doors to abode love today. Check out her beautiful home!

So... are you dying yet? That vintage chandy had me at hello. I also love that Charmaine had the guts to paint her living room table teal-- it's breathtaking and such a lovely contrast to those gorgeous wood floors. I also really love the gray painted custom cabinetry and I'm ALWAYS a fan of leaded glass. Last but not least, those darn Panton chairs. Perfect. I love the young flavor that they bring to this dining space.

Here's another view at Christmas. I love the addition of the black stripes to the drapes. It's a lovely, graphic contrast to the simple, white drapes. Again in this photo, I'm drooling over the wood floors. Such a statement.

Here is a view of Charmaine's living room from the dining space. I love the two charcoal, tufted sofas. I'm also really digging her choice in window treatments. All of the bamboo shades are warm and bring a lot of texture to the space. Little side note, I spy horizontal stripes near the stairs! All of you abode lovers know that I'm a sucker for horizontal stripes!

Federal mirror, check! I love the traditional flare of this vintage piece paired with the white framed and matted gallery wall. I also really love the sleek marble coffee table. I feel like it also ties in well to the Panton chairs in the dining room. The two share clean, white lines and I love it in both of these spaces.

Don't you love this view of Charmaine's living room? Those windows are so pretty... there's nothing like natural light pouring into your abode to make it dazzle with beauty. (and to keep plants alive like the leafy guy she's got sitting behind the sofa!)

I hope all of you abode lovers have enjoyed Charmaine's space as much as I do! I just love a collected, rich, glamorous look! Thanks for the inspiration Charmaine and for allowing me to share your abode on Abode Love! Everyone go over to visit Charmaine at My Best Friend Craig! Have a happy Wednesday all of you abode lovers!

panton chair love

2012-02-07T05:45:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Tuesday! I love, love Panton chairs. I don't have any in my abode... but I sure would love a few :) Why? Well, I just love a random pop of sleek, modern lines in an otherwise traditional space. Verner Panton, a furniture designer from Denmark, is the creator of this "s-style" single-form injection moulded plastic chair- it was his most famous and mass-produced design. Don't you just love the look of this funny little chair?? Check out these lovely spaces that include the Panton chair...

Oh yes.. this is pretty. This is the way to add Panton magic to your abode. All of the creams, whites and neutrals really make this space dreamy-- I think because of the monochromatic space the traditional and modern styles flow together beautifully.

I have loved this little nook via Apartment Therapy forever. I am dying (still) over the hot pink Panton chair in this black and white space. Isn't it just the most charming little nook you've ever seen?

I am all about these black, shiny Panton chairs sitting by the window. This is such an eclectic space- I love the super traditional rug and rich, tufted emerald chair by the fireplace. Also, all of the moroccan pieces in this living room are such a dramatic contrast to the sleek, shiny Panton chairs and I just LOVE it! Anyone else loving this gorgeous mix of pieces??

Here is another view of the same space.... those chairs, they're killin' me softly.

Rustic kitchen, meet the Pantons... they make your space sing.

Here is another space that I am lusting over that contains two very lovely Panton chairs. This space proves to me that the best way to use these streamlined, modern pieces is to pair them with super traditional or old pieces. I think these chairs can go really modern and cold in a space... which is why the warmth of age and comfort is so important to make these chairs still feel like they fit within a space.

These white Pantons are owning me. Again, paired with a rustic piece and traditional storage, this Panton chair shines in this charming little office space.

Here again are a pair of sleek, black, shiny Panton chairs. I love that the floor lamp mimics the finish of the plastic chairs-- such a nice touch in this space. But yet again, the reason I think these guys work so well in this bedroom is the fact that this space contains so many natural elements. For instance, check out that light, wooden door. Also, those gorgeous touches of branches and the collection of natural toned objects on display living on the floating shelves in the back of the space. See why it all works so well together? Without those Panton chairs, this space would feel so natural and rustic.

I am loving this dining set. Another instance where Panton beauty is mixed with a rustic, warm table in a very traditional space. I think this post has me convinced that I need some Panton chairs stat... at least one! Where oh where could I stash one of these guys in the abode??!!

I hope all of you abode lovers have a wonderful Tuesday! Also, anyone watch SMASH last night? I LOOOVEEEDD it. I can't wait to see how this show shapes up!

green with envy

2012-02-02T07:01:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Thursday! I am working the week away and am so thankful that the weekend is right around the corner! As some of you may have noticed, I've been bitten by the green bug... the other day I did a whole post about Peter Dunham's fig leaf textile, and I've just been mentioning the color green more often than ever! So, I thought we could all lust over spaces that are made more special because of the addition of the color green...

There's no better place to start than a stunning, eclectic kitchen space. I immediately fell in love with this space thanks to the green china cabinet with leaded glass doors. This piece brings SO much depth and warmth to the space. Can you imagine if this piece were a different color? There's no way it could be as good as this yummy green. I love that the gold hardware and lighting compliments the green so nicely and just LOVE the collected feel that this one piece gives the entire space! Anyone else dying over this kitchen? That lighting is killin' me... it's just all too pretty to take in!

A pair of green lamps... oh yes. I'm pretty much in love with the green and gold combination in this little office space. It's so fresh and warm at the same time. I love that kelly green is such a prominent and eye catching color that the addition of two lamps in a monochromatic space can make this big of an impact. Loving everything about this space. I would LOVE to sit at that desk and write a few posts and pin a few pretty spaces...

Botanical prints are super classic and are definitely trending right now-- these big guys are gorgeous. I love how big the leaves are and how deep and rich the greens are.

I LOVE this foyer. The green pattern is so fresh and pretty. The scale is also perfect-- it make such a large, graphic statement right when you walk through the door.

Green and gold again. Perfection. I'm not sure there's anything better than a green velvet ANYTHING.

Another entryway packed with green and white pattern... this trellis pattern just never gets old to me.

Hello silky green floor to ceiling drapery... and welcome to the green party. You are truly after my heart with those thick, crepe-like ruffles... omg. Is it possible for curtains to flirt?

Green banquette... don't mind if I do! I love green touches in a kitchen.

I have always loved pink and green... those were the colors that my Super Mom decorated my bedroom with when I was little gal- so I will always have a soft spot for this precious combination. Anyone else dream of having a pink and green room regardless if you have a man sleeping next to you in bed? I don't think Mister Husband would care if it made me happy... but I wouldn't do that to him. Or maybe I would???

Look at this sweet green... I love the soft green tree patterns on this accent wall. I'm not usually a fan of the "accent wall" but I think this is done well...

Big, bold, kelly green chevron drapes are pretty much the bomb.com. I mean, how amazing are these?

I have always loved this precious boy bunk room. That rich green is so unexpected but it is fabulous! I love all of the sports memorabilia tacked up inside this bunk too-- the storage and work space that this built in system brings to this space is pretty amazing. What boy wouldn't love this?

Green and pale aqua... love this fresh combination. Also- isn't that gallery wall of doors interesting? I really love when furniture interrupts a gallery wall... the layered look is lovely!

So-- do you love green yet? I do. I want some in my abode!!! Apparently, the groundhog came out today and declared that we would be having 6 more weeks of winter, but by spring, by-golly... I will have some green in the abode! Have a great day abode lovers!

peter dunham's fig leaf textile

2012-01-31T06:14:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and Happy Tuesday! Are you wondering where the heck I've been for the past week? Sick, again. I swear, I'm not a sickly person... but the past 3 weeks have been my personal hell.

Okay, enough of my sob-story... I have been lusting over Peter Dunham's fig leaf fabric lately and am just dying to add a touch of this fresh, leafy gorgeousness to my abode asap. As I have mentioned lately, I have been swooning over anything green lately-- so Peter Dunham is really hittin' home with me. Here are a few spaces featuring the leafy fabric...

I am loving the teal/green/pink combination in this space. The 4 poster bed brings your eye right up to the ceiling while the 60's style sofa covered in Peter Dunham's fabric creates a ton of interest in the lower portion of the room. I just love a large scale pattern on a relatively small piece of furniture!

Not only does this space have a gorgeous fiddle leaf fig tree growing inside of it, but it's been blessed with two Peter Dunham throw pillows to bring the leafy, fresh look to the sofa. The contrasting red in this space really makes the green stand out-- gorgeous!

I would love to curl up in this space and read a book... or a design mag! I love the walls and adore the landscapes wrapped in gold frames. That little touch really elevates the glamour in the light-flooded space. There's quite a bit of Peter Dunham's fig leaf fabric in this space-- I wish there was maybe one more pillow on the sofa, maybe something in blue? Still, I love the laid back feeling that this space possesses!

Lauren Leiss really knows her stuff... I LOVE this space that she designed for the DC Design House. Lauren makes mixing bold patterns look spectacular and so easy. The window seat stacks layers upon layers of green, leafy patterns along with Peter Dunham's fig leaf fabric.

Don't you just love it? Lauren is so good.

I love the quirky steam punk style floor lamp in this space- so unexpected! I also adore all of the artwork that Lauren has placed so perfectly on the walls. Gorgeous, right?

Check out the entire before and after here.

Here is another space that has a touch of Peter Dunham's fig leaf fabric. I am generally not cray-cray over a skirted table unless it's fitted-- but this table has my mind changed completely! There is something about that fabric that has a hold on me...

Isn't it pretty!?

I love a bold pattern on a floor to ceiling drape... this look is fabulous. I am also loving those spindle chairs!

More Peter Dunham drapes... I've gotta say, I LOVE this fabric with this wall color and that gorgeous paisley chair! Anyone else lusting over this little vignette?

I found this little guy on Pinterest without a trace of where he came from... anyone seen this lost soul before? I would love a link! This is a great image to get the appeal of this gorgeous fabric. The pale teal/aqua that's used with the leafy green is so fresh and I think it's what MAKES this fabric so pretty.

So, are you as obsessed as I am with this gorgeous textile? I would just love to get a touch of this into my abode before spring gets here! I hope all of you abode lovers have an amazing Tuesday!

anthropologie is taunting me, again.

2012-01-20T06:33:00.000-08:00

Hello and happy Friday abode lovers! I am FINALLY back to normal today. I mean, wow-- that was quite a cold! Anyway, I'm a lot more chipper since I can actually breathe out of my nose. It's like a whole new world!

So, as usual, I'm obsessed with anything and everything Anthropologie-- but I stumbled across new merch this morning that I had to gush about... buckle your seat belts abode lovers...

Grafton Chair, Flora Dora $698

I love this chair. The red, peach and purple combination is not typically a palette that I would gravitate toward, but this charcoal based beauty is calling my name. Two of these would be PERFECT in my master bedroom.... anyone have $1400 I could borrow???

Greenfynch Settee, $3898

This gorgeous settee with wingback charm and ball-and-claw-feet is stunning. I love the scale of this piece... the height really makes this beauty sing. Also- each settee is upholstered in a vintage suzani textile-- so no two settees are alike! Love that. In my dream world, I have two of these that act as a banquette with a carrera marble table with a rustic, wood pedestal sandwiched in between-- sounds perfect huh?

Colorfield Collage Pillow, Small, $88

This pillow is just precious. This color palette would fit in perfectly in my abode's living room. I also love the idea of this pillow in a kids room or nursery. I also really love that Anthro's new collection of colorfield pillows have a design on the back that is so totally different from the front. For me, that means you are getting two pillows in one, love that!

Colorfield Collage Pillow, Square, $88

Here again, a gorgeous, rich in color pillow that features 2 designs in one pillow. This color combo would be great in the man mountain, but with this many colors-- it could really work in any space to add a bit of life and youth to a room.

Colorfield Collage Pillow, Large, $68

I love this one because I'm working on a project right now that's major color scheme is centered around a pretty kelly green. I see this pillow being a fun addition to that space! Anyone else loving greens for the spring???

Dianthus Tile Pillow, $168

I love this pillow size that Anthropologie offers-- it's so substantial and can really change the whole feel of a space. I'm also a big fan of adding a little feminine sass to any room... this pink flower definitely helps with that!

Lines in Motion Shade, $88 offered in 2 colors

I love this shade-- but, anthro shades are typically my weakness. Here again, though-- I LOVE the green option. I think green might just be my new thing... it's just so fresh and youthful when used with teal, blue and whites...

Sombrero Sheet Set, $58-$248

Man, these are CUTE! I would love a set of these-- they would be so cute in just about any room in my abode! I also love the idea of purchasing a pair of pillowcases and getting them embroidered with a monogram. So cute.

So-- are you abode lovers as excited as I am about the new merch at Anthro??? This is a great sign to me that spring will be bringing in bright colors and bold patterns-- my abode can't wait, and neither can I! Happy Friday abode lovers and have a wonderful weekend!

built in daybeds

2012-01-19T06:18:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Thursday!
So, my Super Mom is looking to add a built in daybed in 2 places in her abode. She still has kids at home, but she is gaining grandchildren quickly! So, she's looking to make "bunk rooms" where she can stash more than one grandkid to a room... make sense? I have been DYING for her to add a true bunk room... but for now she is only committing to daybeds with trundles. I'm thinking with more grandchildren, she'll revisit the idea of a true bunk room, but for now, daybeds it is!

I told Super Mom I would look around for a few good examples of beautiful built in daybeds and this is what I came up with:

I have always loved this space. I adore the bold color combination of teal and hot pink done in a very classic way using toile and classic silhouette pillows. I love that the bookcases meet the ceiling, it makes this little nook feel so grand. I also really love the lighting. It really creates a very custom feel.

This space is similar to what my Super Mom will be working with... She has a large window in a nook that's the PERFECT size for a twin size bed. I love the simple, industrial style lighting and the wainscoting that wraps around this little daybed.

Fancy Shmancy. This is a daybed for grown ups... Again, I adore that lighting and I also love that the portion of the wall behind the daybed has been painted a deep black matte-- this makes that space recede, which to me, makes the whole daybed portion of this room feel more dramatic. I also love how the built in floor to ceiling bookshelves bridge over the daybed... gorgeous!

This is a bit longer than a standard daybed, but you could certainly stash a few sleeping kiddos on that gorgeous window seat/bed area! Again, I love the floor to ceiling built ins and I also love the side to side roman shades trimmed out in red... this room is precious and perfect for kid play!

Another grown up nook... I love how the inside walls contain books, lighting and a ledge that acts as a nightstand. Wouldn't you love to curl up here and take a nap?

I love the use of space on this little landing. I also love all of the white paneling, those gorgeous lanterns and the quirky mix of eclectic patterns on the daybed and it's pillows.

This built in daybed is so yummy and cozy! I love the color of the wall to wall wood paneling and I also love the fact that the casing for the daybed has been painted white. It's a nice contrast and really makes this sweet, little bed stand out.

This is another one of those spaces that I've loved for a long time. I love the grasscloth wallpaper and those wrap around, floor to ceiling built in cabinets and shelving. The gold hardware is an unexpected touch of glamour and sophistication in this kid room, and the fabric used on the roman shade OWNS me. The deep blue upholstered daybed trimmed in kelly green is topped off perfectly with monogramed shams... LOVE this space!

This daybed situation is far more "sofa-like" than the other daybeds we've discussed, but I loved this space too much not to share it! Don't you just love the rustic quality of this little nook?

This very equestrian-like nook is so rich and super interesting. I love the deep, dark wood in this little nook. It's amazing how open it still feels with all of the paneling, but I think that's all thanks to the stark white ceiling and creamy bedding. Don't you just love that gorgeous window? It's so special and makes this little nook sing!

Wow-- that's a lot of daybeds! I think, like my Super Mom's space, this room is meant to stash a whole lot of grandkids! I love that daybeds can double as seating during the day, which turns this bedroom more into a play room while the sun is out.

Another gorgeous built in daybed with wrap around, floor to ceiling shelving and perfectly placed lighting. I don't think I can get sick of this gorgeous arrangement!

I am LOVING all of the storage in this little space! The bed is quite a bit higher than the typical daybed, but I LOVE that! It allows for a level of drawers for storage AND a trundle bed! Why choose between the two when you can have both so beautifully?!? This may be one of my favorite built in daybeds of the day!

So, anyone else jonesing for a built in daybed now?? I'm lucky, I'll just live vicariously through Super Mom's daybeds in her lovely abode! I hope all of you abode lovers have a great Thursday, we're ALMOST to the weekend!

holli zollinger fabrics

2012-01-18T06:30:00.000-08:00

Hello and good morning abode lovers. I am almost feeling better... I'm hoping by Friday that I'll be at 100% for the weekend since I got robbed by this cold bug last weekend! Anyway, today I wanted to discuss a fabulous fabric designer that I ran across on Spoonflower a few months ago. Her name is Holli Zollinger and I am currently in the midst of working on a project with Holli's amazing fabrics! Holli has almost 400 different prints on Spoonflower to choose from and with Spoonflower, you can get her fabulous designs printed on whatever fabric weight that you wish! Gotta love Spoonflower! So, I thought I would share some of my favorites with all of you!

This one is precious and I've had it on my radar for months now... it's called foxen and it's PRECIOUS to say the least. I love the scale of the fox vs. the little flowers and the color palette is to die for.

This one is called coral lined mosaic. Don't you love the color combination of the charcoal and coral? I think this would be so fun on drapes....

This one is so brilliant... I am just searching for a place to use this in my abode! It's called candy cane anemone, and it's fabulous.

Here is a view up close of the same pattern in another color variation...

burlap flowerscape

I love how traditional this pattern and color palette is-- the large scale keeps it fresh and modern.

grey diamond linen

This sweet little pattern would work in just about any space-- the soft gray and yellow combination is still so popular that I could see a lot of abode lovers out there loving this classic little print.

giraffe safari

Here's another precious animal themed print... Holli has a ton of these. She has precious whales and elephants holding umbrellas as well! Anyway, I love how large these giraffes are-- there's nothing I love more than a LARGE print to spice up a space! Can't you see this in a kid room or nursery??

umbra linen

Love this color. I don't have much blue in my abode, but this fresh color is awesome! Again, I love the large, bold undulating pattern on this fabric.

line paisley lavender

I love this pattern, and the sweet color palette. This would be precious for a girl's nursery.

Okay-- now this poppy pod linen is my favorite I think. It's what I'm planning on using for a project that's in the works for my sister in ATL. I am using it with the two following prints all in her kitchen/dining area! These particular fabrics are not for sale yet, but once my sister approves them for her space, they'll be available for purchase on Spoonflower.

Southwest Shrubs in denim

and Chevrons aqua

So, are you as obsessed with Holli's beautiful fabrics as I am??? I can't quit looking at her extensive collections-- I know a good illustrator when I see one, and this girl is good. Go check her out!

diy otomi headboard complete!

2012-01-16T05:51:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Monday. I am completely under the weather today... ugh, I'm all hopped up on Zicam, Mucinex, Ibuprofen and 2 varieties of cough drops, thanks to Mister Husband. Although I am not doing so well, or looking so hot, I am so excited to share this diy with you today, so here I am! Anyone remember Landon & Kelli's living room redesign? Or their Master Bedroom? They are some of my favorite friends and clients and it's always a pleasure to work with them! Anyway, this time, we are tackling a new space In their lovely abode... one of their guest bedrooms! We've discussed an otomi headboard for a while, but otomi fabric can be a bit pricey... so we went to plan B. Cheap paint.

Here was the process...

I designed an otomi print that I was happy with based off of lots of patterns I had come across online. I made a 60"x60" square document and scaled my otomi pattern to fit. I then tiled the document so that I could print it out full scale-- I then spent far too long piecing together the document with tape. I have to tell you, that process was a bit tedious! I then placed the pattern on top of the headboard that Landon and Kelli had cut out of MDF. We decided how we wanted the pattern to be seen on the headboard, taped it to the front of the headboard and then flipped it over....

Here I am trimming off the access pattern...

Now we have the paper printout to fit the headboard exactly, it was time to cut out all of the otomi shapes so that we could trace them onto the MDF.

We placed cardboard under the pattern so that we could cut out the shapes without damaging the mdf.

Kelli and I pretty much hated this process. It was SO hard. I don't know why... I spent many hours in college cutting with xacto knives, but for some reason... this project about killed us. We decided to only cut out the shapes that were absolutely necessary-- and that I would draw the remainder of the pieces freehand.

So, here is what we ended up cutting out. It took FOREVER. I was at that point coming down with my nasty cold too, and Kelli wasn't feeling too hot, so we felt like we were pretty pathetic. There was a lot of moaning and groaning while we were bent over this stupid thing cutting it out... we were SO glad when it was done!

Once we had it cut out, we traced around each shape with a pencil...

Done! That step didn't take long AT ALL. Thank goodness, after cutting all that blasted paper, we were ready for an easy step!

And now it was time for paint... (Kelli and Landon had already painted the headboard background in Benjamin Moore's Grant Beige) We came in with white paint and painted in each little otomi shape.

After one coat, we decided we definitely needed another coat... we also wanted to add eyes and dots to the pattern like we had seen in most other otomi patterns.

DONE! So, what do you think? After a little over 5 hours we were DONE and completely exhausted-- and now, sick as well! "Was it worth it?" you ask? Yes, I tell you. Yes!

After this photo was taken, we pigged out on chinese and then Mister Husband and I went home. I then climbed into bed with a heating pad and called it a night. It was 10pm, and I slept until around 11 the next morning. I am now nursing one hell of a cold, but I am SO proud of what we accomplished this weekend!

I hope all of you abode lovers have a wonderfully productive Monday, I will not, here's hoping for feeling better Tuesday!

keeping the lights on...

2012-01-14T09:36:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Saturday! I love the weekends... I have plans today to help a friend with a BIG project, more on that later. Before I get going I wanted to share a little project with all of my abode lovers! As some of you may know, I am a professional graphic designer by day... that's what keeps the lights on here at the abode! I have decided recently that I'll be sharing more of my work with all of you here at Abode Love. I figure that perhaps all of you love all facets of design as much as I do! (or at least I hope you do!) Anyhow, here is one of my favorite wedding invitation suites that I designed last spring. The wedding took place on the bride's family orange orchard... how heavenly right??? I loved this project because of the bride's timeless taste but also her need to be a bit different-- this lead us to work with a gold metallic ink and a bright, super unforgettable orange.

We decided to switch it up a bit on the accommodations card and the rsvp cards... I wanted everything to flow well together but NOT to match perfectly. I love the little orange tree sprouting out of the gold shape.

My bride also wanted to play around with bees throughout the suite, so I placed them here and there to add a little whimsy.

If any of you abode lovers are engaged and looking to have a custom designed invitation, announcement, or stationery, contact me for a quote! Also, if any of you have a small business or are in need of graphic design work, let me know! I am a logo designer and web designer as well and I would be happy to get a quote out to you as well!

Want to see more? Here is my most recent project... one of my favorite local clients sent me a pack of postcards that I designed for her over the Christmas break and I thought they turned out super cute!

I hope all of you abode lovers have enjoyed the little sneak peek into my world of design... Have a wonderful weekend!

D. Stanley Dixon, woah.

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and HAPPY FRIDAY! Today, I'd like to share a beautifully inspiring home in Atlanta designed by D. Stanley Dixon from Atlanta Homes Magazine... I mean, just wait abode lovers... prepare to drool!

This home is simply breathtaking. The charcoal wood paneling and wood shingles are warm and rustic in style. I love the copper awning, and the green front door!

The floor to ceiling wood paneling creates the feel of a casual farmhouse, but the gorgeous gold antiques and artwork really make this space feel rich and eclectic. Check out those gorgeous stone floors!!!

and the paneling continues... and so does the gray, black and green color story that was introduced on the exterior of this abode. I love the exposed beams in this space, it's a nice contrast to the smooth, painted paneling on the walls and the ceiling. I also love the stone fireplace that ties into the foyer.

I love the mismatched chairs-- it's completely unexpected in this home.. and there is ANOTHER fireplace. Man, I would love, love to spend some time in this abode lounging by a fire!

a lovely double-door pantry...

I really love the steel and glass doors that open up this beautiful kitchen to the outdoors. It makes these two spaces feel like one in an instant! I am also gaga over those two pendant lanterns over the farmhouse table.

I love the drapes in this cozy space. They add an unexpected bit of femininity in this ultra-manly space. I'm also always a fan of framing up a sofa with floor to ceiling display bookcases. The sconces also add a nice touch to this little lounging nook.

Does this make THREE fireplaces so far??? This screened in porch would be perfect in the fall...

I am loving the mix of gilded gold and rustic wood paneling in this bathroom.

I would never be able to stick with ONE fabric throughout an entire space... but man, this works.

Even the hallway's gorgeous... I LOVE all of the windows and the hanging lanterns!

So-- are you as impressed as I am??? It's such a soothing and perfectly lovely abode... Hope all of you abode lovers have a great day and a fabulous weekend!

christmas loot

2012-01-12T06:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday abode lovers! Guess where I am writing this blog post? MY SOFA! That's right abode lovers, I got a laptop! My iMac has served me very well the past few years, but my Super Mom and Colonel Dad decided to surprise me this Christmas with the most amazing gift! It was Christmas Evening and my family had been finished with presents for hours and we were getting ready for dinner. My parents brought out one more gift for me in a little box... I opened the gift certificate for my very own PowerBook.... I cried. I am still completely overwhelmed with emotion over my parents consistent generosity. I am now able to work anywhere... I am so thrilled that I will no longer be chained to my desk! I had a laptop in college but I dropped it while crutching around with a broken leg and attempting to carry my computer at the same time... Ever since I dropped it, it just wasn't the same!

Thanks again Super Mom and Colonel Dad... my life is now mobile, thanks to ya'll!

Here is Lady and King checking out the new loot... this baby finally arrived today and I couldn't be more excited!

best. gift. ever.

As a professional graphic designer, I so appreciate Apple making the experience of opening a box so special. Hello beautiful design...

And speaking of Christmas loot... remember this post I did about a beautiful tray that Super Mom got me?? I was giving you a sneak peek... well abode lovers, peek no more. Are you wondering why the heck the freaking thing isn't hanging on the wall???

It's because these blasted sticky things didn't work. Boo. I had high hopes. I will now be taking more desperate measures to get this baby hung on my wall... I will be visiting the fine folks over at Lowes this weekend to see if they can help me out with some heavy duty hooks.... Do any of you abode lovers have any tips for hanging heavy platters on the wall???

And last but not least.... this little gem was also given to me this Christmas. My Super Mom painted my late Great Grammy Nola's abode in Madison, Wisconsin years ago... She ran across the painting a few months ago and gave me a print to hang in my abode. It is SO special to me. Isn't is beautiful? (I know the quality of the photo isn't great... I'll share more later!) That Super Mom really knows how to give a gift! I can't wait to decide where to hang this beautiful watercolor print.

So- are you jealous? I know, I know... I really did well this Christmas! I hope all of you abode lovers have a wonderful Thursday!

on a silver platter...

2012-01-10T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Tuesday! I was up way too late last night finishing up a few e-design projects as well as a few graphic design projects. I'm super happy to have work- but when it rains it pours! Anyway, I got a few simply FABULOUS abode objects from my Super Mom this Christmas and haven't had a chance to share any of them with you yet... BUT here is a little sneak peek of one of my favorite gifts!

Now, I told you it was a peek... so, that's why you don't get to see the front. I am currently performing an experiment to see if I can get this baby hung, THEN you'll be able to see the front... I've got my fingers crossed! Anyone ever used these sticky suckers on anything other than plates???

I'm really hoping two will work....

So-- have I peaked anyone's interest? If not... check out these gorgeous photos and see how you feel after that!

I only wish I had this many vintage silver trays... I love the patina on these beauties!

This magnet idea is okay... but I'm just loving the look of the trays!

This image has been a favorite of mine for a while now, and I know I've shared it before, but some eye candy can and will be repeated! I mean, look at that perfect space. I adore the collection of vintage silver trays that span the height of the wall in this space.

same space, different view, still PERFECT

Look at this lovely eat-in kitchen. I love how the silver trays downplay the monster vent hood in this space. I think without the collection of vintage silver, the vent hood would look much more harsh.

So, do you love silver platters yet?

So-- I will be sharing more about this little project with you later, don't hold your breathe though, those dang yellow stickies might not work! (I really hope they do... I'm not in the mood to skank-rig something up!) Have a happy Tuesday abode lovers, and keep your fingers crossed for me!

bamboo roman shades, as if.

2012-01-08T19:01:00.001-08:00

Hello and good morning abode lovers! So, remember my last two posts about bamboo roman shades? Yes? Good. Then you'll remember that I finally received my JcPenney custom shades! You can find them here. Anyhow... Mister Husband hung them this weekend. He's a stud.

Also, I'm sure you guys are wondering what's up with my title.... I told my best friends yesterday that I was going to try and bring back the phrase "as if" circa Clueless, 1995. I literally took notes on this movie when I was way too young to care... anyway, it's been too long to even remember how to use it- so I'm sure I'll be throwing it in when it's absolutely unnecessary. We were all just reminiscing on how "whatever" was truly conceived in that movie... I'm sure every person with a teenage daughter is cursing Clueless now-- at least kids aren't still doing the hand gesture with "whatever" ...or are they? And why didn't "as if" stick??? It's just as snotty and annoying...

Anyway, back to the good stuff-- here we go, goodbye skank white blinds, hello rich, bamboo roman shades...

Here is my naked-y window. I would honestly be fine with this look, but we have neighbors in close proximity to us, so we're definitely in need of some privacy!

Mister Husband- working on getting those suckers up.

almost there... can you tell how lovely they look?

ta-da!

Here are a few images I took last night-- without the light streaming in, you can really see the shades.

I love it!

Happy Monday abode lovers-- and I challenge you to use "as if" today. Not at work, that would be a really bad idea on many levels. But perhaps talking to one of your girlfriends... they're sure to appreciate it. Ah the good ole days... ha!

dog art

2012-01-05T20:52:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers and happy Friday! I hope this back to work week has been okay for everyone... I still feel like I'm floundering a bit, but by Monday next week I'm hoping to make a full recovery! Being away from work for so long is wonderful, but getting back in the swing of things can be ROUGH! Anyone else feeling that way this week? Like, a little zombie-ish?

Anyway, today, I want to discuss dog art. That's right. Dog art. I guess being a dog lover makes me partial to this subject, but I just adore dog artwork. It's pretty visible in my abode that I'm a lover of the canine species.... Here is the dog art in my abode:

The gallery wall in my hallway contains a beautiful photo of King, our yellow lab, and Lady, our cocker spaniel. This photo was taken the day of Mister Husband and my engagement shoot a few years ago. The super small canvas painting was painted by ME a few years ago. I knew I wanted something super tiny for this little space in my gallery wall and that quirky little pup was just the thing!

This little Lady planter is so precious to me! I now have succulents planted in her back, but it's one of my favorite pieces in my entire abode. I snagged it from Etsy for around $10. SCORE! She sits on top of an agate stone that I found at TJMaxx.

This little Lady is also super cute. I love the gold touches on this sweet girl! I know, I know.... you're wondering where the labs are... well, I just haven't been as lucky in finding King dog decor! This little ceramic dog was another lucky Etsy find on the cheap!

And here is the latest dog art for the abode: thank you Ebay for this vintage 1907 cocker spaniel print. I LOVE it! And for $14, I feel like I hit the jackpot with this little number. I need to get it framed asap!

here it is in my possession...

Here are a few beautiful spaces that contain the most amazing pup art! I love these paintings around the bed. They add so much color and life to this space. I think it's a super quirky subject for the bedroom, but I think that's why I love it!

I thought these little staffordshire dogs were super cute sitting on their pedestals. I would love a pair of white staffordshires like these, I have a pair that have spots-- but these are just so sleek!

I've seen this little pink guy all over the blog world and I love it. The colors are fresh and the clean silhouette is fun and modern. I also love that this piece is framed in such a traditional frame with a creamy background. I think it's super unexpected for this piece, but I love it.

Look at those pups behind the sofa. Stop it. So cute.

A print like this lab would be perfect for my abode! King would love it. I would hate for him to get a complex about the cocker spaniel artwork all over the abode... Don't you just love the color palette in this space? The gallery wall is so rich and full of life. I love what artwork can bring to space.

This quirky dog art is so fabulous. I also really like the unexpected frame... wouldn't this be precious for a nursery or kids space!?!

Dog on the mantle. That portrait is so sophisticated.

I have always LOVED this space. I think in large part because of the huge portrait of the spotted pup over the mantle. Gorgeous.

Look at that... what a great piece for a kids room. It's brings a level of sophistication to the space, but the subject matter keeps it young and playful. Gotta love a weenie dog.

This is quite a dog art collection. What I wouldn't do to have a handful of those guys...

Any of you feel like you should be paying homage to your pup somewhere in your abode?!? I am feeling super guilty about not having more labrador artwork in the abode... maybe I should paint something for poor ~~little~~ big King.

Have a great weekend and HAPPY FRIDAY abode lovers!

speaking of bamboo...

2012-01-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

Hello abode lovers! LOOK WHAT I GOT! Hooray for BAMBOO ROMAN SHADES in the abode! Did anyone fall in love with them the other day when I blogged about them? I am so excited... I am hoping to hang these beauties this weekend. I wish I could have purchased them for the entire abode, but let's be serious... who has that much cash after the holidays?!?

Me, cheering with delight-- and yes, I am standing on the counter in my boots. So sanitary.

I ordered these way before Christmas, but they are custom sizes, so it took time. It was definitely worth the wait. "Where did I get them?" you ask? JCPENNEY! Can you believe it? HERE is the link.

My windows can't wait. They're sick and tired of their white, skank blinds. One day, I will be replacing all of the blinds throughout the abode with these lovely shades. I hope all of my abode lovers have had a fantastic Thursday!