For the Love of Design :: Kelley Moore

PLANNING A SOLO GETAWAY

2012-05-22T15:40:00.000-07:00

I have never taken a vacation by myself, it has always been with a partner or friends. At this point in my life, I think the timing is right. I am stumped on where I want to go, SO many options. I know that I only want to go for 7-10 days, so the Maldives is out because it takes 33 hours to get there! So here are a few of my picks so far...

I have been to Italy a couple of times, but have never been to the Amalfi Coast. I love the food, and the passion of the Italian people. Positano looks amazing!

And, I can totally see myself lounging on the beach during the day and playing at night.

Then again, I hear the South of France is amazing. Who doesn't adore the French! Saint Tropez...

....Monaco

I'm also considering the Seychelles....

But that seems a little bit like a romantic vacation for two...

Maybe I'll do something completely different and go to Bali. I love the book and movie, Eat, Pray, Love and my life is in a transition like hers was, thoughts?

And maybe I can even visit the real Ketut Liyer, the Medicine Man that Julia's character met with that gave her direction for her future.

Bali is sounding better and better!

A LITTLE BIT OF PARIS

2012-05-04T15:41:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite trips in my life thus far was to Paris. I love everything about it. The sidewalk cafes...

...the fabulous Parisians and their passion for beautiful things.

From the clothes, to the interiors, and the food - it is true that design is all in the details and the Parisians don't miss a thing.

That brings me to my first impression of Paris. I stepped in to my hotel room to find a little plate filled with macaroons. I had never had one before and I fell in love. I immediately asked the hotel concierge where I could find these decadent pastries. I walked directly to Lauderee.

By the way I found out quickly, never call them a "cookie." They are pieces of art that are full of texture from the slight crunch to the soft creamy center - the flavors dance on your tongue.

Since then I have been on the hunt for a macaroon that would bring the experience I had in Paris to the U.S.. In my search I have never come across a macaroon that compares, until now. I met Chef Alex from L'Artisan in SF and he changed my world. His macaroons are seriously better than the ones that I had in Paris. They are visually gorgeous, and the flavors and texture are absolutely perfect. Check out this video of Chef Alex and me where he shares his passion and talks about the various flavors that we are offering at Joyus.

LIGHTING IT UP!

2012-04-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

I'm looking for great lanterns to source right now and in my search I came across a photo of somewhere in Marrakesh and fell in love with these lanterns. Yes, you can fall in love with lanterns.

DREAM DINNER PARTY SETTING

2012-04-25T12:55:00.000-07:00

As I've said a ton on this blog, I am addicted to entertaining. I love to design parties, I love to create environments that people can connect in, and where they build lasting friendships. I also love to watch people have a good time. It is selfish in a way because it makes me feel good to be the one that has created a space for people to have fun in, it is something I take pride in. I know at some point in my life I have come across people that felt I used entertaining as a tool to "show off." What I have realized through time is that entertaining is my passion, my hobby, and the way I show love to the people in my life.

So, when I have a free day or night I automatically want to create an event. Large or small, it is such a good way to create memories. I can't count the number of people I have grown closer too, the communities that have been created, and the laughter that has surrounded those moments. Entertaining creates community, and no matter how much you move or transition in life you have the opportunity to reach out to people by inviting them into your home and sharing a meal . It is so has such a deeper meaning than just setting a pretty table.

If I had a dream dinner party setting this may be it...

Thanks to Kelly Wearstler for once again creating an environment that I am obsessed with!

THE ART OF THE BAR

2012-04-24T03:00:00.000-07:00

I'm working on building out the perfect bar cart for one of my segments on Joyus. In my research I found some pretty creative solutions and options, but this one is crazy cool.

I'm not sure where it would go in my house, but I'm tempted to find a place for it. I've never seen anything like it. What are your must haves on a bar cart, with the exception of the booze?

I recently bought a collection of bitters tinctures, and they have been a hit at dinner parties when guests mix their own cocktails.

I also have some interesting liqueurs I ran across, and I am loving right now. Check these out...

I am obsessed with the Rhuby...

THE GIRL IN THE YELLOW DRESS

2012-04-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am constantly looking for art that moves me. I came across this painting and was drawn into the subjects sadness, there is such a softness and beauty to her at the same time, there is something about it that feels quiet and peaceful.

What do you see? This is why art is exciting to me, everyone sees something different and interprets it with what they can relate to in life at the time.

FRIDAY IS HERE!

2012-04-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

I think it is about time that I start planning my next vacation to somewhere warm, where I can put my feet in the water, sip a tropical cocktail, and laugh with friends. This weekend I am going to work on defining where that next trip is going to take place. I am thinking it will look something like this...

But before I get too lost in vacation dreamland I have to hop a plane to North Carolina for Highpoint Market.

I am looking forward to catching up with old friends and building relationships with some vendors that I may feature on Joyus.

GREEN WITH ENVY

2012-04-19T03:00:00.000-07:00

I have always loved green. That isn't because my name is Kelley, but because it is fresh. It compliments some of my favorite colors; pink, yellow, tangerine, navy, and more. When I came across this photo I am inspired to recover my dining room chairs in green too. The vintage chandeliers, the white table, the pops of pink, and the hint of gold in the pineapple (the International symbol of hospitality, perfect for any dining room) - I love it all.

COURAGE

2012-04-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

I've never thought that I was someone that had courage. I had a great childhood, I have so much to be grateful for, and yet just like everyone I have had my heart broken, lost people I have loved, been challenged professionally, and have struggled through transition. I am in another period of redefining who I am, what I want, and what I value. As I fight my way through the difficult questions that will both heal hurt, and take me to a new chapter of my life, it becomes clear that I am a woman of courage. I am proud of that, and if you are going through something or struggling in some way I hope that you can see that in yourself too. Remember that tomorrow is always a new day, and a new opportunity to look at life through a new set of eyes.

BURNING MAN

2012-04-17T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of making a list of the things I want to do in life, the adventures I want to create, the places I want to visit, and the new things that I want to accomplish. I have always wanted to take a tricked out Airstream to Burning Man. The craziness and creativity is something that draws me in, but I always have people look at me when I say I want to go like they are shocked that I would want to go. The sandstorms, no showers, etc.. Then I ran across this video, and now I really want to go. The creativity alone on this video is awesome. Beware, there is some nudity - I'm sorry if I offend any of you - but if we were in Europe that would be no big deal and that is another thing I have on my list. Not the nudity part, but the spending more time in Europe part. ;)

BEDROOM UPDATE

2012-04-16T14:08:00.000-07:00

I'm dreaming of my bedroom redesign and I think I found the perfect color palette for this chapter in my life.

I love that it is feminine and a little glam. I can see my canopy bed, and one of my chandeliers above the bed. White painted floors. I seem to never get tired of pink, it is the girly girl in me. I see a mirrored vanity in my future, and a fluffy rug, and a chaise too!

BEAUTY

2012-04-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

It's funny as you become more experienced in life (that is my way of saying older) your definition of beauty becomes more refined and has a deeper meaning. I think that it not only becomes clearer that beauty does shine from the inside out, first and foremost, but it also comes from defining your own unique style and not focusing on what the trends are in the magazines or on the runways. As I do more and more on camera work I am working to define that myself. Throughout this past year I have, and am doing, work on discovering and embracing who I am on the inside and I am excited to see how that is going to develop my unique style on the outside!

You know the saying, "When I am Old I Shall Where Purple?" Well, when I am old I shall give a nod to Iris Apfel...she is fun, glam, crazy, and embraces her style completely.

Okay, maybe I won't be that crazy but definitely will remind myself that I can still where my big cocktail rings, I don't have to give up my room full of jewelry, and live my life with style.

Currently, I remind myself that beauty can come in all shapes and sizes. I think that woman especially put so much pressure on themselves to look like women in the magazines. I mean look at Adele....

Gorgeous!

And the classic beauties like Sophia Loren...

Plastic surgery, has become something that is an everyday topic and yet the women I admire have never changed a thing and see their look as unique. Meryl is a good example...

I want to age like a classic beauty with the spunk of Iris...here's to the years ahead, acceptance, and being better then ever!

CHEESECAKE FILLED EASTER EGGS - NOW YOUR TALKING!

2012-04-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

You know me, I LOVE a holiday and Easter is no exception. Decorating the table each year with new ideas is always challenging, and this year I found a great addition.

If you love cheesecake and chocolate how cute are these for dessert and decor!

At first I wasn't sure about the overall look, an egg inside of chocolate? But, after awhile it grew on me and now I think it would be a fun way to serve dessert in a charming egg cup. Here's how you make them:

Cheesecake-Filled Chocolate Easter Egg Cups
(makes 8 regular sized easter egg cheesecakes, you may need to adjust the amount of cheesecake filling depending on the size of your eggs)
8 hollow chocolate easter egg shells (mine were from the supermarket, approx 6cm tall and 4cm at its widest width)
150g (about 5oz) cream cheese, softened
30g (about 1/4 cup) icing sugar, sifted
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
125ml (about 1/2 cup) thickened/heavy whipping cream
For the 'yolk': 1 passion fruit, 1 tbsp apricot jam, 1 tbsp (about 15g) unsalted butter (passionfruit juice can be replaced with about 2 tsp of freshly squeezed orange, mandarin juice or mango, peach nectar, you can adjust the amount of juice to taste), alternatively you can substitute with any fruit curd you prefer.
Optional: you can include some cheesecake crust crumbs at the base of each egg if you really want to include some sort of crust into the dessert.

Using a small serrated knife, carefully remove the tops of the chocolate eggs. (A couple of people have mentioned that heating the knife under warm water will make this easier and neater, thanks for the tip!) Place the eggs in the fridge to keep them chilled while you prepare the cheesecake filling, you can use egg cups or your fridge egg holder (Don't use an egg carton like me. I shouldn't have used it but I was desperate at the time, I bought the egg cups the day after!). Place the cream cheese, icing sugar, lemon juice and vanilla in a large mixing bowl and beat on high until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside and carefully whip the thickened cream in a separate mixing bowl to stiff peaks (watch it closely as thickened cream is very easy to overwhip and split). Using a whisk, gently combine the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it is smooth. Carefully spoon or pipe the mixture into the prepared chocolate shells. Chill eggs for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.

Thanks to Rasberri Cupcakes for the idea and recipe!

Design Blogger Challenge!

2012-04-03T10:30:00.003-07:00

Okay, I know that I have been a bit MIA and doing many posts on Joyus - but what can I say? I believe in what they are doing and LOVE to shop - so the two make a perfect marriage. Today, there is a Design Bloggers Challenge that is live! Some of my favorite peeps had a chance to makeover one space and had the same product to select from. Check it out!

I found it really interesting to see how each person used the furniture and accessories, and some of the items are even available to buy. Of course, I bought a few of the photographs...

The great thing is that you can find some of the items the designers used for sale on Joyus.

I swear now that I am settled in San Francisco and at Joyus I will be blogging more consistently. Thanks so much for your continued support and for your comments too!

WHAT I'VE BEEN UP TO

2012-03-22T13:51:00.001-07:00

I apologize for being MIA from my blog, but I recently joined an incredible team of women at Joyus, as their Home and Lifestyle Anchor. Joyus is the first video based e-commerce site, they have basically focused on Fashion and Beauty and now I will be growing their Home division. I'm super excited to be a part of a team that is on the cutting edge of e-commerce.Here are a few of my videos...

I hope that you will check in frequently at Joyus, subscribe, and stay tuned for my videos!

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT

2012-02-16T11:48:00.000-08:00

Being in San Francisco there is much more sunshine then in New York or Seattle. I wake up, open the french doors to my apartment, and take in the sun each morning. This morning I began to think about how much fun it would be to host an outdoor movie night. I realize it isn't spring yet, but we are close, and of course I have started to design it in my head. That's what I do with my down time!

Here are a few inspirational ideas!

Isn't it fun to use a vintage card catalogue to offer your guests condiments for the burgers...

Of course, every soiree is a chance to create the perfect environment!

via Apartment Therapy

Love the rugs. Your guests can pull them down and use them to kick back and watch their favorite flick.

via Eclectic Revisited

A bit more casual, and I love the vintage move projector, great way to add a pop of fun decor.

via Attention to Detail

Another inexpensive way to put together sheets tied in twine for your guests to grab and take a seat.

Now this is my style!

via Elements of Style

What a fun way to create seating for kids, I want one. ;)

via Design Indulges

A fun way to create a popcorn bar...

via Camille Styles

I love me some retro candy...

via Hazlitt

A bit higher end way to present, hello, martini's, popcorn, and caviar!

So, when it warms up in your area, select your favorite films, get your friends together, and curl up under the stars.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2012-02-14T11:21:00.000-08:00

On this day where everywhere you look you see red, I thought it would be appropriate to share a few of my favorite red rooms.

Red rooms, can be in accessories too. I am a sucker for oversized lamps, and I love the red detail in the pillow and on the drapes.

via Decor Pad

via Elle Decor

I have always loved this room. I adore the pops of turquoise and yellow, and I would die to have that pair of furry chairs in my house!

via Home Decorating Ideas

Pattern is something I am drawn to, and this may be a must in my hallway when I move back in to my house.

via House Beautiful

Sometimes that pop of red comes in one detail, one dramatic detail.

via Eclectic Revisited

Well, I hope that you have a very Happy Valentines Day and that you are celebrating (maybe a romantic picnic is in order) with someone you love. If you are single, remember to do something nice for yourself today.

DON'T FORGET TO LOOK UP

2012-02-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

One of the things that I find interesting is when designers take the design to the ceiling too. It is often a forgotten space.

Using wainscoting to create a pattern on the ceiling is one of my favorites. It creates dimension and depth and with a fixture hanging in the center, a bit of drama too.

via House Beautiful

These ceiling tiles are a great way to hide any flaw.

via Moi Culture

Wallpaper on a ceiling can not only add pattern, but texture. It also helps to create clean lines and gives the room a warmer look.

via Patricia Gray

Paint is a quick and easy way to transform a room, and you can do so much with it that can showcase your personality or flair.

Stripes add a fun and whimsical look, perfect for a nursery or a sunroom.

Black lacquer adds a sexy and a modern look to any room.

via Elle Decor

I am loving this metallic ceiling. It reflects the light beautifully.

via Gap Interiors

The ceiling is another opportunity to add a pattern to a room, especially to an all white room. Tying the color palette together with the table, and curtains, gives the room a cohesive feel.

via MSN

I had to include this ceiling, the wood and the mirror = dramatic.

via Gahr

CUPIDS ARROW

2012-02-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is around the corner, and you may be looking for a few ideas to surprise someone in your life to let them know you care. The smallest of gestures can make someones day, so don't think you have to pull out all of the stops. Sometimes it's the smallest things that make the biggest impact.

If you have a pot rack at home, cut out some "x's" and "o's" and hang them with fishing line along with some of your favorite pictures of the two of you. If you don't have a pot rack, this ladder hanging is a great idea.

via Taylor 'D Events

You still have time to order these great pillows from Etsy! Who wouldn't want to come home to find these on the sofa, with a bottle of bubbly chilling, with your favorite romantic flick.

via Etsy

Of course, this has been a longtime favorite of mine from Martha. LOVE the monotone palette, with the flowers and the runner down the table and the grouping of lanterns and ribbon above it. If you're single throw a dinner party for your close friends to let them know they are important in your life.

via Martha Stewart

Don't forget the kiddos. This reminds me of a sophisticated version of the valentines boxes that we had at our desks when I was a kid.

via Little Lovely

Another easy option for a more vintage look is to suspend heart doilies around a bed, or near a favorite chair. I also think this grouping around the bookcase would be sweet if you incorporated a few new books that your partner has been eyeing.

via Decorating with Barbara

However you celebrate, remember that valentines day doesn't just have to be on the 14th, your love can be celebrated throughout the year.

THE TANGO

2012-02-03T03:30:00.000-08:00

I've always had a weakness for tangerine. An infusion of tangerine in a room, or on a table, always seems to provide an element that feels fresh and full of energy. It makes me happy. Of course, Tangerine Tango is one of the Pantone Colors for 2012.

Here are some of my favorite rooms, that reflect this happy trend. I adore this wallpaper!

Now this is making an entrance. The stripe of tangerine paint that follows the line of the staircase is brilliant.

via Canadian House and Home

Of course, Kelly Wearstler knows how to do it right. I've always wanted to use this wallpaper, and the pop of tourquoise is perfect.

via Kelly Wearstler Design

Can't you just see gathering around on this sofa at a chic soiree?

via Metropolitan Home

An easy way to infuse a bright color is through accessories. The side table with the statues that tie in to the pillows on the bed - give this room a finished look.

via Houzz

I am a sucker for vintage pieces, so this room grabbed me immediately. The tangerine is easily incorporated here in the drapes.

Of course I couldn't end this post without including a tabletop - and this one just happens to be designed by my friend Eddie Ross.

via Eddie Ross

SUPERBOWL SUNDAY

2012-02-02T03:30:00.001-08:00

Astroturf, beer, and snacks! Throw a party with your friends inspired by America’s favorite sport, football. If the hilarious Superbowl commercials aren’t enough to spark the athletic spirit, this Superbowl party plan is sure to get your company cheering.

If you are the host/hostess put on your referee shirt and get ready to make the calls.

Set the Mood - A crowd of rowdy football fans covered in potato chip crumbs calls for some festive Superbowl music. You can find free marching band music on iTunes. Plan on playing your Superbowl soundtrack at the beginning of your party before the game starts. After all, nothing says American football extravaganza like booming drums and a heard of tubas!

Ticket Please…Inform your guests of your Superbowl gathering by extending them a personalized VIP pass. At Specialeventticketing.com you can find invitations that look just like real tickets for only $1.29 each! The website will print your name, address, event date, and phone number on the invite. If you’re feeling extra creative you can try putting together your own Superbowl invites instead. Make them resemble actual tickets by incorporating things like barcodes, logos, seat, row and section numbers. Then just mark ‘em, stamp ‘em, and send them away.

Décor - The décor for a Superbowl party doesn’t have to be footballs and pom poms. Try creating football player silhouettes via Astroturf and foam core. Start by cutting a rectangular piece of foam core and covering it with Astroturf. You will use this as your base for your football player silhouettes. Using football player stencils from the Internet (search Google images), trace the outline of the player onto a separate piece of foam core. Cut the image out with an exact-o-knife and spray paint it black. Use hot glue to adhere the silhouette to your Astroturf base and viola! Create several of these football player décor pieces to spread about the party space.

Get people engaged - Sporting events are all about having team spirit and enthusiasm. Round your guests up to engage in some Superbowl charades to get their blood pumping. The point of the game is to create your own Superbowl commercial, charades style and on the spot. For the game you’ll need a small vase, some Astroturf, and Popsicle sticks. Cover your vase in Astroturf and spray paint your Popsicle sticks white. Place the name of a well-known product like Doritos, Gatorade, or Budweiser on each stick and place them in the vase. Each guest will pull a stick and aim to make a hilarious Superbowl commercial about their product in 30 seconds. Take pictures and share some laughs because this game is bound to be a blast!

I'VE ARRIVED IN SAN FRANCISCO

2012-02-01T03:30:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon I pulled into San Francisco, the sun was shining, and driving over the Golden Gate Bridge I felt intrigued. Intrigued by this city that seems to be a combination of Seattle and New York. Maybe this is the best of both worlds. Since I have arrived I have been driving around the city getting to know the streets (by the way most of them seem to be one way at the most inconvenient time), finding the dog parks for Mikey (my pup), and preparing for my first day at Joyus (which is today!).

I dropped by a local coffee shop, in my new neighborhood - Pacific Heights. Of course being from Seattle I am a bit particular about my coffee - Jane makes a good cup!

Tomorrow I will be moving into my San Francisco pad. I am subletting for a few months to get to know the city, and am looking forward to unpacking. Living out of a suitcase this past month has not been much fun. The apartment was designed by a San Francisco based interior designer...

...and of course I am already planning my first series of soiree's.

Once I am settled, my first plan of action is a regular morning workout routine - starting with the famous Lyon Street steps.

Have you been to San Francisco? What are your favorite spots?

OBSESSED WITH GOLD

2012-01-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I am passionate about decorating tabletops. I have incorporated hints of gold throughout many of my designs, but right now I am completely obsessed with gold flatware.

via Horchow

Here are a few of my favorite tables that are sparkling in gold...

via Cline Rose Designs

via The Sweetest Occasion

via Ritzy Bee

via Rashon Caraway

via Dilly Dalias

via The Lennoxx

NEW OPPORTUNITIES

2012-01-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

Starting a new chapter in life is exciting, scary, and can be a bit disorienting. The bottom line is that with new opportunities anything can happen. All you can do is make a decision, wrap your arms around it, and jump in with both feet and give your best. So, I am jumping into a new opportunity with both feet. I am spending a few months in San Francisco to explore being part of an exciting and growing company, Joyus.

Joyus was founded by former Google executive Sukhinder Singh Cassidy. She is a powerhouse with a great vision, and is supported by a group of very talented people. Joyus teamed up with fashion blogger and tastemaker Gina Pell from Splendora (which Joyus acquired earlier this year) to produce beautifully shot segments where Gina walks viewers through collections and some of her favorite products, or interviews designers about their collections. You get an intimate view of the designs, products, and people behind them. I will be working with Joyus, partnered with a very talented buyer, to develop their home division as well as anchoring home segments - sharing great home products with you. I hope that you'll follow me there. Keep an eye out here, and on Facebook for some of my favorite products.

HERE'S THE STORY...

2012-01-12T15:54:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! I hope that you had a very happy holiday. As you can tell I have taken a break from the blog and Twitter world over the past month. I have had some personal challenges, and some professional decisions to make. Taking the time off to think, sleep, and spend time with friends and family has been vital for me. I am so grateful for the acceptance, support, and love of the people in my life.

Over the break I watched the movie Eat, Pray, Love (adore) and there was a scene where Julia Roberts was trying to find a word that defined her. My word for 2012 is BALANCE. As hard as I have worked over the years to build a brand, I can say that there were many sacrifices that were made. Some of those sacrifices were necessary and some I very much regret, but now I can only move forward. I will be moving forward with balance in mind and so I am moving from New York.

New York was an experience - more of a roller coaster ride. I am thankful that I made new friends and for the insight I gained about myself, and my career. There is a time for everything, and after six months in the Empire State, I am ready for the next opportunity.

That doesn't mean I will stop building my business, or being creative, and in fact I am on to a new adventure that I will write about tomorrow. It does mean that there may be a day I don't post a blog or that I take off from Twitter, I need to remind myself of that balance I am now seeking. I will be working to live, not living to work. Working towards more dimension, texture, and interest so that I can continue to grow as a person - not just a brand. I hope that you will continue to join me on my journey.