My Interior Life

All Over the Place

2013-05-17T09:24:00.001-07:00

Do you ever feel discombobulated? Like you should be doing about ten different things, but can't seem to accomplish any of them? No? Then maybe it's just me. But that's what I've been feeling like this past week. It started off beautifully with a Mother's Day lunch in Chattanooga with my mother-in-law and our family . . .

A little pre-lunch photo session.

Then, my daughter, who has an egg allergy, got an egg exposure at the restaurant so the rest of the day wasn't too fun for anyone - because obviously, when your child's in pain, so are you. She recovered within a few hours. Benadryl can't work fast enough sometimes.

I did receive my favorite candle . . .

If you've never smelled this candle (or any of the Diptyque candles), you must. I don't typically splurge on nice candles for myself but as a gift, I think they're perfect.

And more importantly I got lots of hugs, kisses and these kind of sentiments . . .

Do you think "give me things that I want" means meeting his emotional needs? Yeah, that's what I thought too. Certainly couldn't mean all the electronic equipment and video games I buy for him.

Other than a couple of client meetings, the week has been a blur. I did manage to use a store credit I had at Forever 21 to buy this cute little striped raglan tee . . .

Source: forever21.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Don't worry, I didn't get the short shorts. I paired it with a little pencil skirt yesterday though, inspired by this baseball tee look . . .

Source: focusonflair.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

So, now I've got to go find my to do list again. We leave for Disney next week (yikes), so that probably has something to do with my feelings of being overwhelmed as well. But, at least I have a fun birthday dinner tonight to look forward to (did I mention I turn 40 while in Disney World - yay). But what am I going to wear? Focus, Kathy, focus.

Tick Tock

2013-05-09T13:38:00.004-07:00

Do you hear that? Time is running out. The school year is almost over!

Source: Uploaded by user via Closer on Pinterest

If my summer looked like this, sure, I'd be ready. Let's go jump off a boat into the ocean, shall we?

Seriously though, May 21st is my children's last day of school, and I heard the bus driver greeting them this morning with "8 more days!" Eight more days?! That's it. And one of those is field day, one's a field trip, one's a graduation/ceremony. That leaves precious little time for getting stuff done without my kids constantly asking "do we have to (usually it's leave the house to run errands) " or "can we please (go eat ice cream or other junk food)?" Don't get me wrong, I have them enrolled in camps and we've got lots of fun and free time to luxuriate in, but boredom can set in pretty quickly in these parts. Camp Mom is never as fun as it should be. So, before I go softly into that good season of full-time kid wrangling thought I'd share some photos of happenings around here . . .

Okay, so this is a ridiculously bad photo. But, trust me, it was the Black Keys concert on Friday night here in Nashville. Much fun was had by all, except walking back to the car in the rain.

New beauty products, tulips, a new magazine and Trader Joe's all make me happy. I'm lame, I realize.

Aren't they pretty?

Then I just went to Homegoods again looking for nothing in particular. Honestly, I went in to use the facilities (TMI?). So, of course, I find a ton of stuff . . .

Some pretty rugs . . . none of which I or any of my clients need right now.

Then, a rug I couldn't decide if I liked or not. It's one of those nylon deals . . .

This rug was literally moving on that big swing arm thing when I snapped the photo. So, if it's fuzzy you'll understand why.

There was some cool original-looking (it was all textured, etc.) abstract art from some Australian artist named Sarah Brooke. Huge. Square. Lines.

And now, for pillow-pa-looza. Honestly, if you find pillows a snore you might want to look away. I think HG has been stepping up the quality a little bit on some of its pillows lately. More down-filled options and natural fabrics. Always a good thing. I got a little carried away snapping photos . . .

Nice simple link detail edging on this black pillow. And in cream and navy. . .

A little lumbar chevron action. I bought these same pillows except in a square version a while back for a client.

You know I love a good pagoda. I used my leg as a propping device.

Some embroidered modern ikat. Pretty colors.

I always like a little faux bois.

More graphic ikat. And in a convenient two pack. Look they match my toes!

Speaking of graphic, these black and white ones almost came home with me. My only hesitation is that they have yellow piping (sort of like the ribbon wrapped around them). Couldn't decide. Plus, the check-out line was ridiculous (it was the lunch hour).

Also, liked this little leopard lumbar number. I think it was the acid yellow/green spots and charcoal combo.

A little metallic cowhide, just because.

And, lastly, for some reason I was digging on this geometric honeycomb/hexagonal linen and plum pillow.

So, if you need some pillows (or any of the other stuff), go get you some (or if you'd rather I do the shopping for you . . . I can do that too - just shoot me an email).

If you're a mom or you have a mom or know a mom, have a wonderful Mother's Day weekend! I may or may not return before then. Tick tock.

La, La . . . Lavender

2013-05-01T08:23:00.001-07:00

My daughter's room is much a work in progress (as is most of my house). I'm constantly moving and tweaking things. Part of this is due to her ~~demands~~ requests, but as a chronic re-decorator, part of the blame falls on me too. Like yesterday, I was minding my own business at World Market picking out a curtain rod, when the colorful, bohemian Priya quilt called to me (what? so I hear voices - doesn't everyone?) . . .

Source: worldmarket.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

I've been looking for a blanket or quilt that would pull in the lavender from her headboard and tie in with the pool blue and navy I've got in there as well. She needed another layer. So, here's what it looks like at the end of her bed . . .

Let me back up and explain that we went from twin beds to a full-sized bed at the end of last year - that was her Christmas present. We ordered an upholstered headboard from Wayfair that I thought was supposed to be a greige-y linen. You couldn't order a swatch so I even asked before ordering because I wasn't sure if it was going to have a lavender cast to it - they assured me it wasn't lavender. Well, it arrives and it is - wait for it - lavender. Shocking, right? But, even more shocking . . . I kind of liked it. It added a little unexpected something to her ice blue room. So, we ditched the green that had been an accent color and went with lavender and navy (I wanted something a little dark to cut the sweetness). So, I had a bedskirt made with ice blue, navy and lavender and added a fun little rug from Land of Nod . . .

So, now I think it has just the right amount of color and fun without being too fussy . . .

Oh, and here are some before photos of her room in previous incarnations . . .

This was in the in-between stage after we painted it ice blue when she still had twin beds and green accents. And the before-before from long ago . . .

When it was pink and white with a little green.

I think it looks a little more appropriate now for my 11-year-old girl (sob) . . .

What do you think?

Weekend Spoils

2013-04-29T12:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Monday. Hope everyone had a great weekend. It flooded here on Saturday, but other than that it was okay. It was flea market weekend, and while I usually hit it up on Friday, I had other plans that day so I managed to squeeze in a Sunday visit. Friday, I hit a local estate sale in the waning hours of the day and scored some goodies . . .

This vintage La Barge mirror is huge and heavy (do you see my black doors? that's a post in itself but I'm waiting for new knobs before the official reveal).

An adorable vintage wicker elephant garden seat/table. Paint him any color or leave him au naturel (that seems to be the trend now).

And if you follow me on Instagram (and if you don't, please do), you may have already seen this vintage Mexican wool blanket. Seriously some of the most vivid colors I've seen.

The flea was packed with vendors and people on Sunday all glad to see some clear skies. I picked up a piece of art . . .

I'm obsessed with the colors in this thing. Looks like a watercolor but it's an oil or acrylic.

Then, of course, some brass just because . . .

Also, on Friday, my upholsterer delivered these beauties (which you might also have seen if you follow me on Instagram. Hint: you should follow me on Instagram to see things first) . . .

Brnos meet Zimba, Zimba meet Brnos. A little chartreuse never hurt anyone.

The exciting thing is that I may not be keeping all these things (well, not exciting for me exactly), but selling them. So, stay tuned for more details in the days and weeks to come.

What is Traditional?

2013-04-23T08:57:00.002-07:00

For some people, traditional = boring. Blah. It's often hard to define traditional in terms of interior design. Attitudes change. Tastes change. I must admit, in the past, I've had less than favorable impressions of what's considered "traditional" decor. However, that might be changing a bit. Why, you ask? Well, it started with this month's issue of Traditional Home. I don't subscribe to TH, but my sister does and when she texted me this photo from this month's issue, it prompted me to buy it off the newsstand yesterday.

Source: traditionalhome.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

My love for sputnik chandeliers is no secret, so I wanted to see more. Here are some more shots from that home in San Francisco's Pacific Heights neighborhood . . .

Source: traditionalhome.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

But the feature that really got to me was the Hollywood home shared by designer Joe Lucas (co-owner of the shop Harbinger) and his partner David Heikka, a visual concept guru for Juicy Couture.

Source: traditionalhome.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Isn't it fab?

Source: traditionalhome.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

And there were two other features I found interesting too . . . a home designed by Jamie Herzlinger and one by Andrew Howard, son of Phoebe and James Howard.

Now, is this traditional design? Or a variation thereof? In the April issue of House Beautiful, the theme was "The Best Traditional Style Now," and Editor Newell Turner wrote that "traditional may be the most misunderstood and misused word in our design vocabulary." I'm starting to agree. He asserts that "traditional is really about the way a room is conceived and put together . . . using ideas and solutions developed over time - it's the sum of all parts." I'm not sure if that clears it up or makes it more confusing. All I know is that I hate labels. I like what I like, often with no rhyme or reason. So, from now on, I'm going to have more of an open mind about things deemed "traditional" and just go with what feels right. How about you?

Oh, and a little off topic, but I did get the arrow sconces on Friday . . . thanks for all your support on that front.

They're a little battered and bruised, but I've been working on shining them up. I just love their unique shape. Still haven't decided where they'll live, but that's always the fun part.

Arrows Make Me Quiver

2013-04-18T08:14:00.002-07:00

Get it? Arrows, quiver? Okay, so it's lame. I blogged a little while back about a recent obsession I have with arrows. You can check that post out here. So, what should I find on Craigslist the other day, but these beauties . . .

A pair of mid-century neoclassical style brass sconces. They are in need of some love as they've been stored in a barn (there are lots of barns around here), but I just love them. In fact, I'm scheduled to go see/get them tomorrow. The problem? My husband. He doesn't think I/we need them. Need? Of course, we don't need them. When is "need" really relevant in the realm of decorating? We're dealing in a land of wants here, aren't we? Wow. I sound very materialistic and shallow now, I realize. And I swear I'm not. Most of the time.

So, please, dear readers, help me make my "point" to my husband. These are cool, right? And my 40th birthday is next month. Just saying.

Fortuitous Find

2013-04-16T09:19:00.001-07:00

I was working on this post yesterday when the bombings happened in Boston. Just absolutely shocking, horrific and sad. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families, witnesses and Bostonians, in general. I decided to go ahead and share my somewhat frivolous post today in case you might need a little distraction in the face of the tragedy.

On my last post, I mentioned that I was going to hit up an estate sale early on Friday to try and snag some goodies. Well, I actually showed up early enough to be third in line and get the items I was going for. Yay! Specifically, I scored these mid-century chrome rolling stools/benches . . .

Here they are at the estate sale. I liked the table too, but decided to pass. It sold within minutes.

Later that same day, my Craigslist sofa was also finally delivered so I was thrilled it was all coming together. Here are the stools in the playroom with the new sofa . . .

I didn't think they looked too bad as they were, but the fabric was a little dated and blah and had light blue and pink running through it.

Plus, one of the stools had a small rip in the fabric, so I knew I'd have to recover them anyway. I noticed that underneath the tear, the fabric peeking through was black. Curious, I got to work pulling off the top fabric . . .

Do you see what I see? Yes, it was a zebra striped velvet peeking through. So, I got out my fabric scissors and went to town. But, of course, I also had to get out my screwdrivers and pliers to remove the portions stapled underneath. Afterwards, I had this . . .

Can you believe it? I think it looks pretty cool. I'm fairly certain this is the original fabric as the manufacturer's tag underneath is stapled on top of the fabric underneath. However, while there are no tears in the fabric, there are some pretty serious stains . . .

I've tried getting them out but haven't had much luck. Any suggestions on how to get out really old fabric stains? Plus, my daughter isn't a huge fan of the zebra. I can't decide.

What do you think? Try to clean up the old zebra fabric or go for something new? I'll be looking for fabric options regardless. I was just excited there was a little surprise in my recent find. Stay tuned for more playroom updates as things start shaping up. Next up, new carpet, lighting and hopefully curtains.

And in other big news from the weekend, my baby boy turned 8 on Sunday. Eight, people.

There were two celebrations - one with friends and one with family. Pierce got more toys than he knows what to do with, so he's thrilled.

Happy Birthday, my beautiful boy!

Attention, Non Wal-Mart Shoppers

2013-04-11T13:39:00.002-07:00

I must admit, I'm a Target girl through and through. Never cared much for Wal-Mart, but recently I've been on the hunt for this stuff which led me to the mega-retailer . . .

It's Rust-Oleum's Specialty Metallic spray paint in brass. I bought three cans of it several weeks ago and have intermittently spray painted my IKEA Vittsjo shelves with it (as weather/temperature/my injured toe permitted). So, of course, the other day I ran out - I never seem to buy enough spray paint. No problem, I thought. I headed back to Home Depot - they don't stock it anymore. Lowe's - same deal. And lastly, I tried Wal-Mart - no dice there either. What the hell, Rust-Oleum, have you quit making the brass version of this paint which bloggers love and swear by?? Long story short, I ended up ordering some online. However, while at my local Wal-Mart, I picked up some cute things in addition to a garden hose.

Behold, my new ikat cushions for my outdoor chairs (which I bought last year at World Market) . . .

I thought they were pretty and colorful . . .

And, I picked up some beach towels there too (it was sunny, beautiful and 80 degrees here yesterday so that may have had something to do with my largely outdoor-related purchases as well):

Cute, right? Okay, so I may not become a regular at Wal-Mart but it's nice to know they have some decent stuff.

Wish me luck as tomorrow I'm going to try and rise super early to snag some estate sale goodies. I'll let you know how it works out . . . hopefully I won't have to throw any elbows. I'm serious . . . estate sale people don't play around.

Money, Money, Money

2013-04-08T08:13:00.001-07:00

Hi. Yes, I'm here. Just busy like you are. I do need to blog more. Lately, I've been feeling uninspired, but the beautiful spring weather is getting my wheels turning again. So, I thought I'd share a little photo that inspired me recently. As I was flipping back through my magazines again yesterday, something caught my eye in the latest issue of House Beautiful. In designer Connie Newberry's home, I found a few photos that drew me in but I just noticed a detail in one bedroom that led me to a great idea.

Source: dec-a-porter.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Do you see it? She blew up photos of foreign currency and used them as art in a boy's room. Genius. I'm always looking for creative art ideas and this one seems like a no-brainer. Not sure why I haven't thought of it before.

My husband travels to faraway lands for his scuba diving/underwater photography and often brings back foreign money that wasn't worth exchanging. So we've got all kinds of cool, colorful money lying around with no use. That's about to change.

See the pagodas on a couple of them?

And I love the animals . . .

I've been looking for some art for Pierce's room, so this seems like a great solution. It's like a unique souvenir that he can look at every day. Now, just to decide which ones to use. I'm thinking red, blue and green ones since those are the colors in his room.

What do you think? Are you on board with this idea? If you don't have access to foreign currency, you can always find photos online.

Now, I've got to go make it rain in my son's room. Never thought I'd say that.

Shopping Finds

2013-03-27T15:39:00.001-07:00

My children are out this week for the coldest Spring Break in recent memory. So, while we're in town between our short little trips to visit grandparents, I thought I'd check in and dump my most recent shopping photos on you.

First up, a recent jaunt to Homegoods turned up some nice lamps.

I like the graphic punch of this chevron lamp. I know some people are over the whole chevron pattern thing, but I think this small amount is simple and classic.

I was drawn to this gray lacquer lamp in a modern interpretation of a pineapple/artichoke.

I'm a sucker for creamy pottery lamps in organic shapes. I've seen versions all over the place, but I really like this one. And the price is nice.

Still like a little gold tortoise shell action, especially if they're faux. The subdued black bases and linen shades make these a classic choice.

I spied this rope mirror there also . . .

This would look great in a variety of spaces (a boy's room, beach house, etc.), but what first popped to mind was this Nate Berkus designed bathroom . . .

Source: architecturaldigest.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Then there were some vivid powder-coated Tolix stool knock-offs that would add some fun to any kitchen . . .

If you don't like the red (ahem, Sissy), you can always paint them, I don't know . . . green. Like this:

Source: littlebluedeer.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

And speaking of red, I saw this really pretty lacquered cabinet at an antique mall.

While I'm not a huge red fan, sometimes, in moderation, it really works. The clean lines and hardware on this piece are great and reminded me of the beautiful blue cabinet in Kate Spade's apartment . . .

Source: theselby.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Next up, a great pair of vintage wicker chairs with a very Boho/John Robshaw-esque fabric . . .

These chairs could be just the unexpected touch a room could use to save it from predictability.

Okay, so we've all seen recovered vintage chairs with ikat fabric but I found these so charming. Something about the warm wood and cool gray made them more interesting.

A colorful, original abstract print signed and numbered always makes a room.

And, some interesting accessories to bring some personality . . .

I used restraint and didn't purchase any of the above pieces, just snapped them with my phone. But the next few pieces made it home with me from an estate sale on Friday . . .

A vintage Panton chair knock-off. Pretty sure it's not real because there are no markings. But it's very sturdy and fun. It's going in the playroom too.

And a couple of vintage lamps because I have an addiction . . .

This one is getting its base spiffed up and going in Meg's room, I think.

And this one I'm not sure about yet. It may go in the playroom or it may go up for sale. Stay tuned.

Have you found any fun things lately?

Urchin Code

2013-03-21T12:08:00.000-07:00

Hello all. In for a quick update. Apparently, the code I gave you the other day for a discount on the urchin chandelier has expired (my apologies if you tried to use it), but the owner kindly sent me a new one that will work. So, between now and the end of March, you can use the code TRYTHEURCHIN20 to get 20 percent off Stimulight fixtures!

Here is one of their newer versions with even more spines. Love it.

Also, in other news, I stumbled across a charcoal gray sofa yesterday on Craigslist that will work perfectly for the new and improved playroom. It's less than an Ektorp from IKEA, and I don't have to mess with shipping costs, etc. It's a Florence Knoll reproduction and screams Mad Men to me . . .

Excuse the Craigslist photo. We went to see it/sit on it today and will have it moved to our house hopefully within a week or so. I think the kids are going to have the coolest room in the house!

Playtime

2013-03-19T08:11:00.001-07:00

I was gone, but I'm back now. I thought I would just jump right into what design-related stuff is going on around here. I may have mentioned it before but our playroom is about the only room on the main floor of our house that hasn't been painted or really decorated since we moved in about seven years ago. I mean, it's a playroom, and it was yellow and my kids were 4 and 1 at the time. We made do. Well, now, they're 11 and almost 8, and have much more discriminating taste. Let's just say the playroom is long overdue for a makeover. Cue the ugly photos of what it currently looks like:

This is a typical Saturday morning scene in the playroom. Blankets and pillows everywhere and Pierce bouncing on an exercise ball. Meg chilling in the corner. And, of course, Zoe, the sweetest dog ever . . .

Thanks to Craigslist, some of this stuff has already gone, specifically the tiny kids table more appropriate for toddlers and the Pottery Barn shelving unit/changing table that mainly held junk they no longer played with . . .

There's really no rhyme or reason to the current furniture, mainly cast-offs or whatever I could find a few years ago at a consignment store when my post-grad sofa literally came apart at the seams. But now, the children are older and a lot less messy. No smeary fingerprints much anymore, just some crumbs and general disarray.

So, here's my plan. Paint the walls a nice, clean, calming color called Sonnet by Benjamin Moore. Reupholster or slipcover the sofa in a dark gray fabric (maybe black) to hide dirt OR possibly purchase an IKEA Ektorp and sell the old one on Craigslist . . . whichever is cheaper. Also, the carpet is trashed from years of use (it was here when we moved in) and abuse (from a trapped cat, etc.), so it's time for it to be replaced. I was thinking a charcoal gray berber possibly. I'll layer the current Persian from eBay on top. Oh, and the Mastercraft credenza from down in the "Tornado Room" migrated upstairs to the playroom at the behest of my daughter . . . she manages to snag all the good furniture (yes, the tornado room is now the music room, more of a place for Meg to practice piano than hang out). Oh, and some curtains on the windows might be nice now that there's much less threat of the kids pulling them down.

Here's a little mood board I mocked up of what it could look like . . .


Click on photo to see larger.

I know what you're thinking . . . it doesn't really look like a kids' playroom. Well, good. I've always disliked kids' rooms that scream "only children hang out in here." Come on . . . children like nice/pretty things too (well, at least my children do - wonder where they got that?). Plus, I spend a considerable amount of time hanging out with them in there too. But please do not worry, their childhood whimsy will be well-represented in here - their art will adorn the walls and all their "stuff" will reside in the room.

The credenza already holds the treasured TV and is chocked full of video game paraphernalia (I know, I'm a bad mom). Meg picked out the Mellby side chair at IKEA on our weekend shopping trip to Atlanta, so that's currently in the room now too. I also picked up the prints at IKEA and we already have the area rug and similar black and natural baskets. The room will be painted next week and hopefully I'll be ordering the carpet soon. I already have the laminate burl wood table and chrome chairs from the flea market already set up for homework/arts and crafts. And, I don't care if leather Moroccan poufs are trendy, my kids love them and they seem fun and appropriate for a playroom. Nothing is precious or breakable . . . just comfortable.

Oh, and did you notice I changed out the light fixture with a Stimulight urchin chandelier from my last post? Well, I'm not sure if that's going to the final decision or not, but when the very kind owner of Stimulight saw my last post on their lighting he offered my readers a 20% discount on their products! If you want an urchin of your own, just use the code SEARCHINFORURCHIN20 at the Etsy store check-out. Not a bad deal. He also mentioned they're experimenting with different materials and are actually working on an acrylic (stop it!) and wood version of the urchin now. Very cool.

So, what do you think about the playroom plan?

Jean de Merry for the Rest of Us

2013-03-08T07:06:00.002-08:00

I, like so many others of you, fell in love with Jean de Merry's urchin/satellite-style chandelier when I first spied one in Ashley Stark's arresting dining room . . .

Source: smallshopstudio.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Since then, I've seen them all over the place . . .

Source: niagaranovice.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: wanderlustinteriors.files.wordpress.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: cottages-gardens.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Then, most recently, I saw one in a showhouse designed by Canadian designer Nam Dang-Mitchell featured in House & Home magazine . . .

So, why am I bringing up this extremely expensive chandelier (I don't even know how expensive it actually is, but I'm imagining it's way out of my price range)? Well, at the end of the same article about the showhouse, they did one of those "get this look" features and they showcased this chandelier available at Anthropologie . . .

Source: anthropologie.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

This sucker is still $1,898.

Then, just the other day weirdly/coincidentally enough, I get several notices that I'm now being followed on Pinterest by a company called Stimulight. I was somewhat intrigued. So, is this the new form of the press release? Not a bad idea as it caught my attention. They sell what look to be similar yet smaller versions of the urchin chandelier for either $399 or $499 . . .

Source: etsy.com via Stimulight on Pinterest

Of course, they don't look as large or as "spiny" as the de Merry or even the Antropologie chandelier, but for several hundreds (or thousands) less, you can get a similar look. Hmm.

What do you think? Worth the considerably smaller price tag? Or would you rather drain the savings account for the real deal?

Dorothy Draper Drama

2013-03-04T07:06:00.001-08:00

First of all, thank you for all the sweet comments about my hair and my daughter's birthday - both are much appreciated, and Meg had a wonderful weekend. Now, on to the Dorothy Draper drama (I could've titled this post something like "All's Fair in Love & Craigslist" or "Espana Saga" but went for alliteration). It all started about 5 p.m. Wednesday when I spotted this ad while perusing Craigslist. My jaw dropped and my heart started racing as I immediately dialed the number to inquire. The listing had only been up for 30 minutes. Surely, I had a chance, right?

CLICK ON PHOTO TO ENLARGE

I was apparently second in line; someone had already called about it. So, I did something I've never done before on CL . . . I offered above the asking price - $50. I figured that would clinch it, and it did . . . for a little while. We had a plan to meet the next morning at 9 a.m. Then I get a text at 8:30 a.m. from the seller saying that she had two higher offers and couldn't sell it to me. Luckily, I had sold some shelves on CL earlier in the week and had enough cash to match the higher offer. The deal was back on, and I was literally on my way when she texted again saying the person whose offer I matched just told her what a treasure they had - a Dorothy Draper chest. So, she wanted to hold off and do some research before selling it. Seriously?! I was so furious at this "informant" who ruined my transaction out of spite. Who does that? I'm sorry, but if a person doesn't know what they have . . . that's their problem. If you have no clue what I'm talking about, these chests go for thousands on eBay and 1stDibs.

I was offering the CL seller perfectly good money - more than they initially asked for, and by the way, they were given this piece by a friend who was moving. So, they didn't even pay for it. Anyway, long story even longer, the CL seller ended up selling it for $600 (way out of my price range) to a dealer who then probably turned around and listed it on eBay for a couple thousand or put it in their store for twice that amount. The moral of the story? I have no idea, other than I don't think I or my clients are meant to have a Dorothy Draper Espana chest (remember this post?). And some people are douchebags. The whole dream of CL or thrifting is that you'll find a gem that someone doesn't realize is worth anything. Unfortunately, I think those days are gone.

Some interiors featuring some DD chests, just so I can wallow in my misery . . .

Source: lh6.ggpht.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

I have that same vase, by the way.

Source: marcusdesigninc.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: theregencyfurniture.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: allaboutvignettes.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

See how they go in any interior? I didn't even see the one hiding in the corner of this room until Google found it for me.

And lastly, even Sex and the City got in on the DD action (I think these chests were in her Vogue editor Candice Bergen's office)

Source: homeofbambou.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

So, do you have any crazy Craigslist stories of the ones that got away?

Without Further A'Do

2013-02-28T04:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, I swear this is the last post about hair where I use goofy titles with 'do in them. So, I got my hair cut yesterday and here's the result (to see a before, just look at my About Me page - it's fairly current) . . .

Excuse the one-eyed Veronica Lake look . . . I hate taking photos of myself and couldn't get a good shot of my whole head without doing the ole side-eye.

I really like it. Now, I just need to become friends with these products to make it work on my own.

I'm notoriously bad at styling my own hair. I just lack that skill. I admit it. So wish me luck.

Next up - preparing for this little lady's 11th birthday on Saturday.

It kills me that she will be 11. She got her ears pierced on Monday. Another milestone that broke my heart ~~a little~~ a lot. I love you so much, my sweet girl!

I will return to design programming soon as requested (by Colette and other readers)!

What to 'Do?

2013-02-25T08:36:00.000-08:00

Why, hello. Yes, so I sort of neglected the ole blog last week. Sorry for my absence. Nothing really crazy or out of the ordinary happened. We had to get a new dishwasher because our old one kept leaking (not good for the hardwoods or my sanity or the dishes). I also started working with a new client who has amazing taste and was ready to get to work. No joke, she sold her sofa on Craigslist last Friday, picked out a new Lee Industries sofa on Saturday and had it delivered Tuesday. The rest of the week was spent helping her make decisions about what other pieces to add as she sold off other pieces in the room as well. Oh, and she consigned her antique dining set as it was totally not her. Next stop, dining room options.

However, my immediate issue is my hair - it's driving me crazy, but luckily I'm getting it cut tomorrow and am thinking of going shorter (this seems to be a trend lately, but I'm not above being a little trendy). I'm thinking something shoulder-skimming like this . . .

Source: flourishdesignandstyle.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Or a tad longer like this . . .

Source: flourishdesignandstyle.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Then I saw Giuliana Rancic on the Red Carpet last night with her short do and loved her look . . .

Source: blog.zap2it.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Now, I have a LOT more hair than Giuliana and that's my main problem. I like the sort of wispy, wavy look but my copious amounts of hair make it difficult sometimes. I think Kristin (my fabulous stylist) will just need to cut lots of layers to make it piece-y (sounds like I know what I'm talking about, right?).

In other news, we're starting to re-do the kids' playroom as it's the only room we really haven't done anything to since we moved in over six years ago. But, as the kids get older and have fewer small toys, their room needs some tweaking. First and foremost, it needs a coat of paint as the harvest yellow/gold in there is way 1998. Instead of their tiny play table, I decided they needed a bigger surface where they could do crafts, eat, do homework, play games, etc. So, I found this faux burled wood laminate table and chrome chair set at the flea market Friday and loved it . . .

First of all, the fact that it's laminate and going in a playroom is a slam dunk. But, the faux burled wood look just ups the cool factor a notch. And for some reason, my kids love anything that looks the least bit modern . . . if it's chrome, it's good. Hmm. Where did they get that idea? Also, the table folds down to extend or to be totally flat and shoved up against a wall. Perfect for impromptu dance parties or sleepovers. Space-saving is always a good thing. Here it is opened up (as requested by my daughter) in the playroom . . .

Of course, the upholstery will need to be replaced but that's an easy fix. I actually have some white vinyl and some other options around the house too. That's another project to add to the list.

I sincerely hope I will be checking back in more this week. If I'm really brave I may try to snap a photo of my new 'do tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Love

2013-02-15T13:19:00.002-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Hallmark holiday yesterday. That's what my husband calls Valentine's Day, and it's pretty much true. But, for me, it's more about the kids. They enjoy exchanging valentines with their classmates and friends (and mainly the candy and treats involved). I was lucky enough to receive this from my sweet boy . . .

I don't know about you, but I see a little doily with kid writing on it, and my heart just melts. So sweet.

And, of course, I got the kiddos a little packet of goodies, mainly iTunes gift cards and candy, but found some cute little journals at Target as well.

Very Kate Spade, don't you think?

And probably the most romantic thing that happened to me yesterday was that I won this Scalamandre Zebra umbrella from Kim Macumber's giveaway! Can you believe it?

It's even red. I've always loved this pattern (especially the wallpaper) and will feel super stylish walking around in the rain now.

Hope everyone has a happy weekend! We're attending a Lunar New Year party tomorrow and I'm very excited as I've never been to one.

Truths

2013-02-13T07:14:00.002-08:00

I've found out some things recently. They may not be all that enlightening or earth-shattering, but they are what they are.

1. If you're wearing an air cast/boot thing on your foot in public, random strangers will talk to you.

Whether you want them to or not. Mostly, it's kind of nice. Or maybe this only happens in the South where people are chatty anyway? Regardless, I think people are generally curious (or nosy) about why you're wearing "that thing on your foot." Now I understand why Ted Bundy was so successful at luring women by wearing a fake cast. The corollary may be, for all you single girls out there, if you want to pick up a guy wear a cast and go grocery shopping. You can borrow mine (if you wear size 9/9.5) in a couple of weeks.

Oh, by the way, I can drive it's just a major pain because I have to do a Mr. Roger's changing shoes act in the car. So, I haven't gone that many places because I'm impatient.

2. I'm really liking things with arrows on them right now. I know this is a trend and will be over in about five minutes, but so what. I think it hit me when I saw this black and white arrowhead runner from Nate Berkus at Target the other day and thought a couple of these might look cool going up my stairs (the ones I recently fell down . . . see, it all comes back to my toe/foot right now).

Here are some other arrow-related items I've pinned too . . .

Source: Uploaded by user via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: antiques.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

3. I love this cereal. Yum.

That's it for now. Hope your day was enlightened with my random thoughts.

Shop for a Cause

2013-02-08T14:39:00.002-08:00

Just popping in to remind everyone that today is the last day to go shop Angela from the Painted House's Joss & Main sale. She has picked some beautiful things and curated an amazing sale with 100% of the proceeds to benefit Room Service Atlanta - a very worthy cause. So, if you're looking for some cool stuff, please do check it out. I found so many things I loved and rather than just list them I was inspired to put them into a mood board so you could see how they might look in your own abode:

Click the board to enlarge to get a better look . . .

Sorry, I'm just now reminding you, but yesterday I was visiting the orthopedist who put me in one of these things . . .

Cute boot, right? It's the new style. For me anyway. Apparently, I have a crack in my toe but my main diagnosis was "turf toe," just like the NFL players.

Enough about my toe . . . go forth and shop and have a great weekend!

Istanbul (Not Constantinople)

2013-02-06T09:47:00.002-08:00

On the same day, I found the tessellated urn/jar I also happened upon some really cool old posters at an estate sale. They were from Istanbul, according to their markings, and all three depict life in that ancient Turkish city or at the famed Grand Bazaar within it . . .

The second one of the Grand Bazaar is my favorite.

I just love the look of them and the saturated colors. They're obviously prints, but it looks like the originals might have been hand-colored pen and ink drawings. Very cool.

I think they would look amazing blown up super-size and used as a wallcovering or mural like these inspiration pics . . .

Source: rajirm.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: google.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Hmm. My wheels are turning. Until I decide what to do with them, I'll leave you with They Might Be Giants' version of "Istanbul (Not Constantinople)" because it's just such a fun song. I can't be held responsible if it gets stuck in your head the rest of the day.

Although, my favorite TMBG song is "Birdhouse in Your Soul" (I think mainly because my husband put it on a mixed tape for me when we were dating in college - remember those, tapes?). So, I'll put that one on here too. Don't feel obligated to listen/watch either one, but I guarantee they'll make you happy. I know this is a random post, but I think my broken toe has made me a bit delirious.

Woe is My Toe

2013-02-04T11:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, so everyone knows Mondays suck. They just do. But to add insult to injury or should I say injury to insult, I fell down my last two steps this morning and either broke one of my big toes or tore a ligament or something extremely painful.

Source: pbs.twimg.com via Signs.com on Pinterest

I need a sign like this apparently. I didn't want to show a photo of my toe because it's gross.

So, I hobbled around getting my kids ready for school, etc. Then I was told by my husband that I needed to run a check to the bank. Immediately. So, I threw on some jeans, my puffy jacket and my leopard house slippers (because they were the only shoes that wouldn't kill my toe) and ran out the door. After depositing the check, I thought to myself, "You have no shoes besides flip-flops that won't kill your toe." Seriously, I only own boots and ballet flats, no UGGs. I have running shoes but didn't think I could get my big fat toe in. And I can't wear flip flops in 30 degree weather or my broken toe would fall off from frostbite. So, I had the bright idea to stop by Target on my way home thinking surely they have some clearance fake UGGs I could shove my foot in. But, first, let me back up and mention that I'm wearing my glasses, have a huge tumor-sized zit on my chin, no makeup and no bra. I have hit a new low. So, I limp/shuffle into Target wearing these house slippers:

They could pass for real shoes, right? Right??

I was certain that everyone I knew would be there staring at my house slippers. But I think I escaped detection. However, Target had no fake UGGs except for kids. Damnit. Nothing looked remotely comfortable. So I hobble back to my car, defeated. Then, I realized Marshall's was open. There laid my salvation as they had a cushy, easy to slip-on pair of loafer/driving moccasin type shoes that didn't hurt my swollen toe. Sold. Thank you, Cynthia Rowley. I knew I liked you for a reason.

I'm not sure what I did to piss off the universe today, but I'm sorry . . . I really am. Or maybe clumsiness is the only explanation. Either way, I'm going to be super good from now on. Promise.

And just to reassure you perplexed people out there who were wondering if I really still write an interior design blog and not a complaining one, here is some design-related bit of what-not . . .

I found this great Chin Hua desk from Century at an estate sale this weekend. While I was unsure of where to put it at first, a happy accident (meaning we couldn't get it through certain doorways without dismantling it) had me placing it in the corner of our living room. My husband loved it here and immediately dragged a computer up from the basement to put on it. Because we can't have a room without several electronic devices in it. Excuse the cords. I'm hoping to put some baskets or something under there to camouflage some of that soon.

I hope your Monday is going well and doesn't involve broken bones.

Identity Crisis

2013-01-31T14:11:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Sickville. This time it's not me, it's my son. But he's on the mend and fever-free today which means he's going back to school tomorrow . . . unless it snows. Anyway. You would think I would've found time to blog while sitting around for three days but instead I've been researching and looking at other blogs until I'm bleary-eyed. Why? Well, I do love blogs, but I've mainly been looking for guidance and people who design logos and/or websites/blogs. You see, I'm having a bit of an identity crisis much like this poor dog.

Source: srslycute.com via Marina on Pinterest

(Sorry, couldn't resist this photo as we have golden retrievers and this one looks like our first golden, Sadie. Totally unamused.)

In a nutshell, I'm having issues with Blogger and getting rather annoyed so am thinking of moving my blog to Wordpress which I probably should have done long ago. Also, I've been wanting to update the look of my blog, so this seems like the ideal time to get a new identity and platform. I've email-chatted with a couple of designers and think making this change would be fairly simple, but there are some issues, and I have some questions.

Source: thehousehome.tumblr.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Had to break up the boring talk with a gratuitous pretty photo. Has nothing to do with anything.

So, if you have any suggestions or input this is where I need your help. Moving my blog would require a new name of sorts, and there is the issue of my decorating/interior styling/whatever you want to call it business (if you did not read Sissy's hysterical post today about what to call her business, you must - I about spit my coffee out laughing) having a different name.

Source: Uploaded by user via My Interior Life on Pinterest

More gratuitous pretty. See the tassels?

Obviously, my blog name is different from my current business name - k interiors (which I'm not married to yet, by the way, so that's up for discussion as well), but my blog is much better known (I think). So, my thought is to go with My Interior Life going forward (or a slight variation thereof, depending on what domain name is available) and just use that blog as a type of professional website with a Portfolio, Contact, etc. Makes sense, right? But can I "point" a Blogger blog to a new Wordpress blog? Or do I just ask people to subscribe to my new blog and direct them there with a link on my old blog? Are you still awake? Do you care?

Source: habituallychic.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Sorry, if this is totally boring and you have no interest in this whatsoever. But, if any of you have been through the big blog switchover or know of anyone who has or are even thinking about it, I would love to hear your input. Also, if you've got a blog designer that you absolutely love (who doesn't cost a small fortune) who works on Wordpress blogs, please do share their name in the comments. I think I may have found a great one, but it never hurts to see what else is out there.

Thank you, and I promise to return to posting about interior design stuff soon!

Precious or Pier 1?

2013-01-28T08:26:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those moments where you walk into a thrift store or antique mall, see something and almost run to it? Then you remind yourself, "I'm in a public place, and I'm not a three-year-old. Must. Walk. Slowly." This happened to me last week when I spotted this . . .

What is it? A jar? An urn? I'm not sure. All I knew is that I had to have it. It appears to be covered in tessellated horn and possibly jade with brass inlay, oh my. The graphic pattern and rich colors are what drew me in initially. It is huge and extremely heavy. The checkout guy said, "It's probably from Pier 1." I thought most assuredly it is not! So, of course, I scurried home to do some research. I found not one single solitary piece that resembled my jar anywhere online. However, I did find some other tessellated pieces that look like they might be related . . .

Source: center44.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Source: 1stdibs.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

These pieces are all attributed to Maitland-Smith and/or Karl Springer from the 70's or 80's. I believe Karl Springer designed pieces for Maitland Smith, but sometimes pieces are just attributed to the company and sometimes to him and sometimes to both. Confused much?

Anyway, what do you think? Could my big jar/urn/vase thing be a distant cousin to these precious pieces or is it simply a piece of Pier 1 junk (it's not, I just know it)?

In the end, it doesn't really matter. I just love it (even with its chipped pieces on the lid and a slight dent on one side). If it is an urn, I think you'll know where you'll find me when I leave this earth.

Out and About

2013-01-23T09:10:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm here. When I started feeling better last week and the weather started clearing up a bit, I was so elated I had to leave the house which meant less blogging. Sorry about that. And where should I go? Shopping, of course. I met up with my friend Arrione one day, so while in her neck of the woods, I hit up her Homegoods and an indoor flea market. Here's what I found.

A plethora of cool side tables . . .

Some of which were a little pricey, but not horribly so. Any one of them would make a statement.

A couple of cute mirrors . . .

And an artichoke lamp because I still think they're cute.

All I got at Homegoods that day were these cute little notebooks/journals . . .

Don't they look very Kelly Wearstler-esque??

At the indoor flea market, I found some goodies as well. First, what didn't make it home with me . . .

I loved these vintage, gold-tipped glasses and pitcher. Aren't the sherbert-y colors fab? But, I need more glasses like I need another hole in my head. So there they stayed. Sad face.

And this lovely brass etagere is such a stunner . . .

Of course, it was NFS (Not for Sale) as it was a display. I hate when that happens. What burned even more is that it still had the Habitat for Humanity markdown sticker on it. Some lucky antique dealer got this for anywhere between $11 and $22. My friend ModFruGal has this very shelf in her house (featured here on Small Shop Studio), and it looks amazing.

What did I pick up? A little ceramic box painted to look like malachite because, duh, I'm kind of obsessed with malachite.

And a couple of pieces that have roping/tassels because I'm a little obsessed with those too. So, I'm obsessed, so what?

Please excuse my "angry-looking" face in the mirror. This is my intense concentration face. It explains why I need Botox.

Both need some love and new paint, obviously. My daughter said the little garden seat/stool looked like it belonged in a circus and a friend called it "hideous" but I think with some work it could look like this Italian Tassel Stool featured on One Kings Lane . . .

Source: onekingslane.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Anyway, that's all I've got for now. I hope to show you some projects I'm finishing up, but life keeps getting in the way or rugs go on backorder till June. So infuriating. Until then, I'll leave you with a little pic I snapped of my daughter's cute outfit this morning. I just couldn't resist . . .

Sorry, it's blurry. Dashing out the door for the bus doesn't allow much time for focusing. I just loved the little striped jacket she threw over her Teach for America t-shirt and teal skinnies with matching sneakers. She's becoming her own little person who picks out her own outfits - kind of bittersweet, really. So stylin, my little Meg.

Fashion Forward

2013-01-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

In the depths of dreary winter weather, I often dream of spring clothes and even start buying them. I guess I'm an optimist at heart and can't help but look forward to brighter days and warmer weather (it's either that or slit my wrists from the gloom). Luckily, the bright colors and stripes of last year are still around and on trend. Yesterday, my burgeoning fashionista daughter and I hit the mall for a little retail therapy. First up, Forever 21. Look, I know what you're thinking . . .

Source: blueeyesandauburnhair.tumblr.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

Yes, I'm 39, but I can still wear some Forever 21 clothes (albeit a size up from what I usually wear because their clothes are cut so small or so poorly made or both). But for trendy, colorful pieces, I find their selection pretty spot on usually. And they have a girls section, so my daughter can grab some trendy too. Here's what we found yesterday . . .

Essential 3/4 Sleeve Striped Tee

A little striped boatneck tee because you can never have too many of these, and some of mine are looking rather ragged after years of wear.

3/4 Sleeve Lace Top

A little pop of yellow lace to brighten any outfit.

And somewhat inspired by this photo of Miranda Brooks in the latest Vogue . . .

Source: ifthelampshadefits.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

I picked up this eyelet embroidered top to wear with jeans . . .

Eyelet Embroidered Top

I also got another blue on blue striped blouse, but I can't seem to find it online and don't feel like trying it on to snap a photo. But trust me, it will look great with white jeans whenever white jean weather finally arrives!

My daughter couldn't pass up the stripes either with this great little tunic . . .

Rugby Stripe Tunic

She also got some minty leggings to go underneath, but of course, those aren't online either.

And speaking of minty tones, we also hit up Old Navy for some budget finds including two sparkly tanks in stripes (duh) and solid (because a girl can't wear stripes every day . . . or can she?):

Women's Sequin-Front Jersey Tank

Although the sun's not shining here today, these pieces have put me in a better mood. Plus, my cold seems to be improving day by day, so I'm very thankful for that and for all your kind wishes for my speedy recovery . . . they seem to have worked. Happy Monday!