A design dilemma that I consistently face is how to design around an existing leather sofa or clients that love the durability of leather but are looking for a way to keep the room from looking too heavy. This past week I received several questions from readers looking for fresh ideas to brighten up their rooms with leather furniture confirming what I have been experiencing with my clients so I decided it was time to share some ideas while answering our readers question  from Just Ask.

Q. I would like to begin redecorating my living room.  I want to add color to my dark brown leather couch and loveseat, plus add new window treatments that are light and airy.  I really don’t know where to start to get me out of the “brown” theme and into the “light and airy” feel I want.  Thanks for your help.  Maria

1. Pop of Color- Above, a touch of turquoise on the kitchen island and sofa pillows balances the strength of the leather in this open plan. Keeping the cabinets, walls and area rug light add to the impact of the color you choose to accent with.

2. Fresh Pillows- Probably the easiest way to lighten the look of a leather sofa, add light colored pillows with fresh patterns in varied sizes and textures.

3. Walls & Windows- White or light colored walls create a crisp backdrop for the natural leather tones, the effect is light and airy. For the window treatments, I like keeping them sleek and architectural; 2″ white wood blinds or white plantation shutters, for a softer look try Silhouettes or a classic side panel in sheer fabric.

4. Cottage Flair- Below, add a piece of cottage chic furniture to your room and you will find it softens the look of the leather. Add plants and flowers for an organic dimension.

5. Bold Patterns- An area rug is the perfect place to make a statement with bold pattern and color creating a direct relationship with the bold leather pieces in the room. Toss some of the colors from the area rug onto the sofa with a throw and pillows, fun.

6. Lighting & Accessories- Proper lighting can bring a room to life,  in the case of making the leather furniture feel lighter it can even achieve that. I have recently been hanging a statement fixture over the coffee table or ottoman and love this look combined with recessed fixtures, designer tip- use a Par 20 bulb to achieve the feel of daylight verses the popular incandescent bulbs that give a yellow cast. Accessories that are light in tone can also enhance the light and airy feel as demonstrated below.

Image {1,2,3,4,5,6}

The post The Lighter Side of Leather appeared first on Adore Your Place.

The design collaboration of Elisa Allen and Matt MacEachern featured in New England Home caught my eye as I dream about summer vacations and the quaint villages of New England. If you have been to Nantucket you already know what a treasure it is sitting among the islands of Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

This home combines classic design choices with coastal inspiration and fabulous lighting. Natural materials and a neutral palette are used throughout to allow the natural surroundings to connect to the interior.

Swooning over these lanterns and how they relate to reclaimed lumber floors instantly adding rustic charm and character to the space. I am also a huge fan of built-in banquets and their cozy feel and functionality.

A bright, white kitchen with careera marble, a wood top island and high-end appliances are almost a given in a classic treasure like this. Large scale, industrial inspired lighting are the perfect choice to create a wow factor in the kitchen.

The bathroom design follows the same design concept of selecting timeless materials combining them with a classic black and white color palette. Below, the bedroom feels slightly more organic with wood tones and greens but is still timeless.

I hope you have enjoyed the tour and leave you with a final image of Nantucket featuring its natural beauty and charm. Let us know about your adventures in Nantucket, we would love to hear about them.

Images via

The post Timeless Design: Nantucket appeared first on Adore Your Place.

My daughter celebrated her Sweet Sixteen this past week and one of the highlights at the party was a photo-booth! Since has been a little girl she would go nuts when she spotted one on the boardwalk or at a restaurant in NYC. I surprised her with a vintage style booth (rented of course) at her birthday dinner with friends and they had a blast.

You would think it would be an easy task to find the booth but it actually was not. Photo-booths come in many shapes and sizes these days from classic original booth style to home-made creations to simpler versions of a camera and a back-ground. I was looking for the actual vintage style booth. I had mentioned earlier this month that I am helping a client with her wedding design working with her fabulous wedding planner. The photo-booth somehow landed on my “to-do” list and after searching for one for my daughter’s party I realized why, it becomes part of the design details and aesthetics. These photobooth images left are from one of the hippest weddings I found when creating an inspiration board for the wedding design, Ace Hotel Wedding of Ashley & Kris featured at 100 Layer Cake.

This process made me curious, where did these vintage treasures come from? The first photobooth hit the scene in 1925 debuting on Broadway in New York City. Anatol Josepho unveils his photo taking machine, a fully equipped outdoor kiosk with the latest photo technology and a special curtain to enclose the booth’s visitors. Crowds of up to 7,500 would line up on Broadway to have their photos taken for 25 cents for a strip of eight. Here are some famous photobooth images from back in the day; The Kennedy’s, Elvis, Audrey Hepburn with Truman Copte and Mel Ferrer and the last image Salvador Dali, so fun! I just adore The American Photobooth Book that you can buy here and for some current celebrity photobooth sightings click here.

The photo-booth I rented was from Magestic Photobooth, vintage charm with digital images and excellent service. My daughter had a blast and after found a creative way to make her own photostrips from the hundreds of Instagram pics she takes. Learn how to make photostrips from your Instagram photos, an excellent and easy tutorial from College Prep right here. I hope you enjoyed our retro post as much as I have, say cheese!

Image {1,2,3,4)

The post Photobooth Obsession appeared first on Adore Your Place.

*** This giveaway is closed – see who won! ***

{Our lucky winner has been selected by Random.org and she is Kristen Waldrep, Congratulations Kristen! Thank you to everyone who participated, stop in daily for design inspiration, free  advice and our next exciting Giveaway}

Wouldn’t it be lovely to select one of these fabulous Caitlin Wilson pillows for your home for free, well you can if you Enter to Win our Pillow Party Giveaway today! Our friends over at Caitlin Wilson Textiles are giving one of their fabulous pillows of your choice and size to the lucky winner. One simple step to enter and there is even an optional bonus entry, if you are selected one of the Anchors Away Collection pillows will end up on your doorstep, wish I could enter LOL.

• PRIZE: One lucky winner will receive a Caitlin Wilson pillow from their Anchors Away Collection.
• TO ENTER: Comment below which pattern is your favorite. Pictured above on the left in order; Lotus, Links, Anchors Away or Arrow.
• BONUS QUESTION:  For an extra entry, “Like” Caitlin Wilson Design on Facebook or “follow” Adore Your Place on Instagram and tell us in the same comment.
• GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Saturday May 18 th, at 8pm EST. Come right back here on Sunday morning for the announcement of our winner.
• NUMBER OF WINNERS: One
• DETAILS: One entry per e-mail address is permitted. The winner will be announced on Sunday, May 19th. You get to choose a pillow from the collection here, select the pattern, color and size.

I wanted to share a bit of Caitlin’s inspiring story because I adore her textiles and attitude about managing being a wife, mother and designer. This is a juggling act I manage daily and when I see someone doing it with such style and grace I have to stop and admire them. When I lecture design students or speak at career fairs this is a topic that consistently arises for women, how to successfully balance kids and career aspirations. Having the opportunity to work where you raise your kids is a huge advantage. I to run my business out of my home and although challenging at times the rewards of being “present” in their lives is priceless.

Below is Caitlin’s colorful studio, she has designed interiors from San Francisco to the Cayman Islands and has lived in London, Dubai, and Hong Kong. Inspired by these rich cultural experiences and having the advantage as an interior designer of finding a void in the marketplace when searching for fabrics, Caitlin decided to design her own collection of textiles. In her own words, “My textiles are versatile, sophisticated, and affordable”. As a designer I find Caitlin’s textiles have a positive energy that my clients are instantly drawn to with fresh patterns and livable color palettes. You can read more about Caitlin’s adventure and see more of her space at Design Sponge.

Thanks for entering our Pillow Party Giveaway and best of luck. I hope you have enjoyed meeting Caitlin today and I am sure that the addition of one of her pillows will brighten up any room in your home! 

Images via

The post Pillow Party: Caitlin Wilson Giveaway appeared first on Adore Your Place.

Q. What do you recommend for the the front of the tub, wood or tile, I really want wood but my husband thinks tile will be more durable? Gianna

A. Wood or tile on the face of the tub deck are both durable and acceptable design options. The main difference between the two is the design aesthetic that you are looking to achieve. The tub deck itself is where the material will effect the durability. Above, the face is covered with recessed wood panels, the top is a quartz material (natural stone crushed and manufactured into a solid surface) and there is an under-mount tub. I personally love this look and the top will wear like iron.

Wood doesn’t have to be painted white, stained wood can be just as lovely if this is the look you like. The shutter detail on the face is the perfect complement to the actual plantation shutters on the windows and the rich wood color is warm and inviting.

Here a simple subway tile covers the face of the tub deck and the look is clean and simple. This top is Carrara marble which requires more maintenance than a quartz product because it is a natural stone and porous. I recommend clear soaps and shampoos, nothing with color that could stain the top. Also white candles, colored wax can stain the top as well. Below, is a combination of tile and wood with a sleek grey top for a more contemporary look.

Now that we have established that tile and wood are both good options for the face let’s talk about how you can design your tub deck to reflect your personal style. Below, for a modern organic look this gorgeous stone covers the face and deck. Natural wood on the window trim and seamless glass doors add to the design aesthetic.

For a more classic look, a wood face with a more traditional design and oversize moldings and trim to complete the look. This tub is a drop in vs. the under-mount versions we have been looking at. One is not better than the other just a different look. The mill-work is just breathtaking and the built-in bookcase adds function and design detail.

Lastly, a cottage inspired master-bath with the addition of bead-board to create the casual cottage look. The moldings and trim are just stunning here as well and are a welcomed addition to the basic cottage design details. Happy designing!

Image (1,2,3,4,5,6,7}

The post Just Ask A Designer: Bathroom Design appeared first on Adore Your Place.

This season I am designing a couple of patio areas and one that will include a kitchen. This is so exciting because I just love designing kitchens and I have not had the opportunity to design an outdoor kitchen in a few years. Join me as I begin the design process with pertinent questions that I need answered before I begin designing.

The first question I ask my clients is, where are we putting the kitchen? Some options are under a covered patio or porch, on an open air patio or deck, in a pool house or in a structure adjacent to an outdoor entertaining area. The location impacts the decisions on finishes and products, and should be determined before purchases are made.

Above, covered patios are wonderful places to create outdoor kitchens because they offer shelter and keep the appliances and finishes looking better longer. I love the idea of creating a nook for the kitchen. Designer tip- proper ventilation is crucial, notice the ventilation above the grill.

The next question is, what will the kitchen consist of? It can be as simple as a  grill, sink and refrigerator to a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances. Tiling behind the grill is always a good idea if it is up against a wall or the house in this case. Built in dishwashers are also a nice function so the dirty dishes are not dragged through the house. Below, a custom structure is created to cover this fully equipped kitchen. The stone tiles are a larger scale enhancing the view of the pattern and organic feel..

Should there be a pergola above the outdoor kitchen? I am a huge fan and love how they bring instant character to the area that they occupy. Below, I would like to introduce you to my dream outdoor kitchen, there is even a brick oven. Aesthetically, I recommend sleek industrial quality appliances in stainless steel coupled with natural materials.

In a pool house or shed there are more design options you can include. For example, if you have a pool a washer and dryer is a welcomed addition with a ton of wet towels. Additional features like gliding glass doors and transoms add to the design aesthetic. However, I would need my shelves covered LOL.

Will there be a dining area close to the kitchen? I like to keep a comfortable distance between the kitchen and the dining table in case I am preparing food while my guests arrive. Below, in Greece actual cabinets are incorporated into the design and a mix of painted vintage chairs adds just the right amount of color. Then lighting design, a must for an outdoor kitchen so you can see what you are cooking at night. Well, that’s enough for me to get started designing and now I am ready for my meeting tomorrow. Thanks for joining me today, this was fun. Share your outdoor kitchens with us.

Image via {1,2,3,4,5,6}

The post Outdoor Kitchen LOVE appeared first on Adore Your Place.

The living room as we know it has changed drastically since I was growing up. The biggest change is that we actually use it! Personally I love having a space to go hang out with my family where a flat screen doesn’t exist, although I have designed several flat screens in living rooms for my clients. Today we are talking about the latest trends that I am incorporating into my living room designs from multi-million dollar homes to cozy cottages these concepts can apply.

Built-ins- I have never designed as many built-in bookcases in my career as I have this year. The custom, sleek look of built-in bookcases coupled with their functionality makes them a home-run for any room.

Lucite Love- Add a Lucite piece such as a table or bench in a living room to create a chic modern touch. Don’t be afraid if your taste is more traditional the Lucite piece will add an eclectic vibe. I would not recommend Lucite in a cottage setting, it will look out of place.

Pop of Color- You will hear me use this phrase often, just a simple addition of color is sometimes all you need. Some ways to achieve this are with pillows, window treatments, artwork, area rugs, accessories and frames. Here, a mint chair and velvet aqua pillows do the trick.

Oversize Mirrors- A large scale mirror in a living room can add depth and drama. When I have a challenging blank wall to contend with it is usually a fabulous oversize mirror that is the perfect remedy.

Accessories & Pillows- A well accessorized room is always warm and inviting. This image above shows several examples of how to accessorize, I am loving the drum coffee tables and bold patterned pillows. Stop by later in the week for a fabulous pillow giveaway from Caitlyn Wilson.

Ditch the Sofas- Yes, I said it, go ahead and think outside of the box especially if you have adjacent rooms with additional seating. The concept of chairs around the fireplace is cozy and aesthetically pleasing.

Image {1,2,3,4,5,6}

The post Living Room Trends: Part 1 appeared first on Adore Your Place.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of my reader Moms, I truly hope you are taking some time to enjoy what makes you happy today . Here are some Mom’s that truly inspire me to be reach higher and be the best Mom I can be.

Hero Mom’s- Serving our country is the ultimate sacrifice a Mom can make, they can be away from their family for months at a time risking their lives to protect our freedom.

Audrey Hepburn- I am a huge Audrey Hepburn  fan, style, grace & philanthropy. Although modest about her roles as mother, actress and humanitarian, she remains one of the world’s most famous actresses of all time, remembered as a film and fashion icon of the twentieth century and ambassador for Unicef.

Mother Teresa- Unconditional love and devotion for all of God’s children. “”Be faithful in small things, because it is in them that your strength lies.” -Mother Teresa

Leigh Anne Tuohy- Changed the life of Michael Oher when she decided to pull over and ask him if he had a place to stay. ” If you have seen the movie the Blindside, that’s my family! We believe in the power of one and making a difference”.-Leigh Anne. The perfect Mother’s day movie.

My Mom- Word’s cannot begin to express how thankful I am for her unconditional love and support throughout my life. A best friend, role model and treasure.

Image {1,2,3,4}

The post Moms I Adore appeared first on Adore Your Place.

I have the honor of Guest Blogging today over at one of my all time favorite blogs, House of Turquoise! Join me as we explore the many ways to incorporate a Pop of Color into your kitchen. Whether you are starting from scratch or refreshing your existing kitchen you won’t want to miss 7 of my favorite “client tested” tips, read more here.

Image via

The post Guest Blogging: Kitchen Design appeared first on Adore Your Place.

The renovations of our tiny family bungalow after the effects of Hurricane Sandy are coming along, a post is on the way to show our progress. For today I was looking for some  inspiration and turned to the talented architects at Polhemus Savery DaSilva. A smaller scale house that demonstrates care and attention to details incorporating classic New England details, this is just the inspiration I was looking for and this sweet cottage delivers.

Perched above the bay the views are just stunning, the entire back of the house is windows to maximize the view while connecting the house to the picturesque surroundings. Two balconies and a lovely screened-in porch boasts a full view of the shore-line.

The decor is classic beach cottage in shades of blue combined with crisp white. Nautical and beach touches can be found in the shutters, fireplace surround and collections throughout . In the kitchen several glass cabinets were used keeping the smaller scale feeling light and open.

This is the view from the bedroom opening to the balcony. The farmhouse style window is the perfect complement to the classic cottage architecture and shingles. Further below the bathroom has a fabulous built in tub maximizing the function of the space.

From the entryway to the view from the shore this home optimizes classic New England architecture. I hope you have enjoyed spending some time by the bay today with me and that you have a chance to relax this Mother’s Day weekend somewhere warm and sunny down by the bay. 

Images via

The post Down by the Bay: Cape Cod appeared first on Adore Your Place.