The Styled Life

The ever-inventive Ikea Trestle

2014-06-12T10:20:00.003-05:00

Everyone knows that battling IKEA on the weekends are not for the faint of heart (psst, Friday nights are gold--just make sure everyone is well fed before you drag them there). But with a deal like the trestle legs for $20, its so worth it.

I've been pretty obsessed with Facebook online garage sales lately (like OBSESSED) and have been accumulating some great DIY projects because of it. I have 6 enormous vintage window shutters, four of which I made into a headboard for our guest room, but I have two leftover screaming for a spot, perhaps a desk or console?....decisions, decisions.

I put Ikea trestle legs up there with Expedit greatness. They are pretty fabulous for a quick dining table, desk or side table on a budget and the color possibilities make it truly one of a kind.

Makeup table ladies?

Add a few pieces of reclaimed timber and Voila! Instant industrial.

Or you could go as far as to use the butcher block counter top from Ikea for a smoother finish.

Any good Ikea hacker knows to think outside the box. How about install upside down to create a pin-like leg, more legroom, and cleaner storage.

The look can even go a little tradish.

Incorporate multiples for a whole office.

For a fun pop of color, get your spray paint out. I love the mis-matched chairs.

A little faux brass really glams this up. I mean looks like a million bucks!

All images via Pinterest

A touch of Teak

2014-06-11T14:12:00.001-05:00

In a world full of painted cabinets (which will NEVER go out of style...trust me), I'm starting to wonder where the next trend is going to take us. Wood cabinetry is bound to make a come back, but I'm thinking in maybe a warmer hue, like Teak. I just love the idea of a floating teak vanity topped with crisp white quartz counter top and galvanized light fixtures for a casual bathroom....this is what I day dream about folks.

Here are few unexpected teak looks that I find super refreshing.

General Assembly

Love this teak paired with the concrete countertop and that bloated square tile is so unique. I could totally do without the teak step though- it takes away from the pop of the vanity.

Paso Robles Building Supplies

There is a lot happening in this bathroom, but I love the accent punch for towel rack.

Simple and clean. If I could change one thing however, there is a lot of rectilinear shapes, I would switch out the matchy matchy mirror for a round metal one.

Zerbey Architecture + Design

This is such a European design no?

Betty Wasserman

LOVE LOVE LOVE

Umm yes! This screams hip farmhouse, and that black paned window is the perfect touch of black.

This shower almost hit a homerun, the marble and concrete are fab, but that moddled texture looks like a crappy ceramic tile from the bargain bin. The looks would have been much better if the exterior of the shower matched in the interior.

Not all subway has to be white, and with this amount of natural light, this bath can handle the matte black.

What a Pane

2014-06-09T11:55:00.000-05:00

I've been pretty obsessed with metal paned windows lately- not very energy efficient, I know, but I guess if you live in paradise, who cares. They pack quite a statement, so elegant and effortless looking. If I ruled the world, I'd swap out my courtyard windows for these bad boys in a heartbeat.

William Hefner

Hanson General Contracting, Inc.

Summerour Architects

Add a metal paned glass door and I don't think anything could be better.

TATUM BROWN CUSTOM HOMES

Robert Nebolon Architects

I love the look of the paned glass as a shower enclosure, very industrial, masculine feel.

Markham Architects

This image above has been in my Dream Folder for quite awhile now...its just so good! The wood floor, paned glass, hex tiles, that sink! Collected perfection.

Another Droolworthy Lake House

2014-05-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

Memorial Day Weekend means a large body of water, grill, a few cockies and having American Pride. An easy, breezy, calming palette melts all of your daily routine away, for a few days anyway.

I love a good lake house, as previously shared here. This Wisconsin Lake house, is the epitome of relaxation. Even if you can't get away for a weekend retreat, this is a great relaxing inspiration for your home-- Not beachy, but not woodsy, the perfect mix of both masculine and feminine.

A very serene color palette, with reclaimed wood to ground the look and keep it from being too beachy. I love the touch of the antlers.

Lots of natural light floods this house, even with the straw shades drawn, natural light can stream through.

A super uncomplicated kitchen, with plenty of style. After all, you want to be soaking up the outside, not slaving over the stove.

Such beautiful simplicity, and a great retreat for the eyes and soul.

Design by de[luxe] design studio

Inspiring Designers

2014-05-21T08:20:00.000-05:00

I was recently asked a rather seemingly simple question of 'who are my favorite interior designers,' and I had to really thing about it. It is very hard to distinguish one individual who does everything "right" in my eyes,when design is a world of "the eye of the beholder." After mulling the question over, I really got to thinking about who has a specific aesthetic that stands out among the rest. In my opinion, there are few people that really are artists; who create something a little unexpected, ever evolving, and inspire others. In any case, I came up with a few visionaries that I would move right into anything they come up with.

The first designer that always comes to mind is the great Kelly Wearstler, she is a trendsetter, plain and simple. I mean the girl literally marches to her own beat. Remember when Hollywood Regency style made a HUGE comeback?? Everyone was on Craigslist searching for anything Greek key, brass or something with those lines to paint a bright cheery color. Then whenever we all thought that was the greatest thing ever, she changed things up and started dipping into retro 1980's overstuffed furniture and bold marbles. I like to think of her as High Fashion meets Interior Design.

Ms. Wearstler evolves on to not only a fabric designer (come on who didn't have some sort of Imperial Trellis something???), to clothing, jewelry and sculpture. Like I said, a complete visionary, that mark my words, everyone will be clamoring over her designs years after she's already in the groove.

Then I started to think a little more locally. In Houston, a household name is Sally Wheat. Sally has gone from the very beginning of the French Country/ Belgian Design to Modern to Classic and is also ever changing her aesthetic. Many of Kitchens have been inspired by her personal Kitchen and I would love to pick her brain about her adorable courtyard. Wheat's aesthetic is what I like to call Casual Class.

And last one off of the top of my head, is local here in the Dallas area, none other than Gary Riggs. I recently visited his North Dallas store that took over two retail locations and uber amounts of square footage-- Oh! and I saw him in action taking super precaution in where things were located in his store, and artist at work!

Gary's style is something that I like to call Southern Layers. Super eclectic, colorful, charming, collected, and with a little southern twist. His designs are super energetic with tons to look at, and the man wrote the book on pattern play.

The plate is on the wall

2014-05-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

I've been searching high and low for a collection of sort of modern, but traditional and all white vintage plates to hang on wither side of my Anewall art. I wanted something with a round shape to play off all the square angles in my dining room.

I think plates are sort of all the rage right now to make a big impact on a small budget. Its kind of a gallery wall without all the work and price, no? Vintage, new, colorful, neutral it fits all types of design.

I'm huge fan of all white dishes and towels- I learned that trick years ago on Oprah...when they get dingy, toss them and replace and you never have to worry about matching the color. Brills.

Plates also work great in other areas of design like amping up the presence of this headboard.

Or filling an otherwise empty modern wall into an organic piece of art.

I had to do a double take on this one, is it a print canvas? or cut plates? Super cool, and how in the world did they cut that so straight and clean?

BeesKnees tells a story by combining plate art with word art and LOVE the old book print wall treatment!

Of course you aren't limited to china, these silver pieces are pretty stunning and will patina to take of a warmer glow.

And lastly, how great are these paper plates as a party decoration?!!? In lieu of inconvenient balloons and super festive!

Pinterest has all kinds of inspirations on how to hang them too! You are no longer a stuck with the wire plate holder with the prongs in view. You can hot glue a paper clip or safety pin to the back and easily attach to a nail or this nifty rings on the back from our friends across the pond, who know all about hanging plates on the wall.

Disc Hangers

Images via Pinterest

Tiny Home with a BIG Wow

2014-05-15T08:15:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows that you don't have to have a palatial pad to have uber style--IKEA does an amazing job of proving to us all that. And sometimes I think its a little easier to design smaller spaces, because aside from the dinero aspect, tight spaces often dictate design for you.

Take a look at this super cool 450sf Moscow home designed by ofdesign, that shows us that small can be big on style.

The entire space started off with white (when in doubt go white-it'll give you an artistic flair and at least brighten your space). I love the textural element a painted brick or stone wall gives to a room.

Then the designers layered natural elements, like a soft grayed wood floor, clear sealed wood accents, natural material window coverings and then added plenty of pastels, instead of primary colors to have a soothing feel and not make any one thing jump out at you.

An elevated "bedroom" give tons of underfloor storage.

The walls were "thickened" up to provided more concealed storage and no doors were used to swing into space and limiting the floor plan.

A stained wood back splash adds tons of impact in the kitchen with not alot of cost...how easy would these be!?!?

This view reminds me of a trendy restaurant bar, and serves as a visual divider from the living room, great for a sink of dirt dishes. Every little nook ans cranny used and I love the jarred pantry-maybe not so functional to fill up, but oh so cute!

The interior balcony is used as a sweet little dining space with a trunk banquette for more storage and fold down table.

On the opposite side of the balcony a little garden and reading nook.

In the bathroom, scrabble-like tiles were used to act as art and add a little funk to the small space.

Light on!

2014-05-13T10:56:00.001-05:00

I have literally been obsessed with light fixtures lately, so much good is happening right now in terms of chandelier and pendants. Classic Revivals, Modern Funk, multiples- it makes a great statement and can totally morph the feel of the room.

First off is what I like to call the Drippy Chandys. Forever Timeless, totally eye catching with the prisms and an ode to old glamour. These fixtures can go anywhere from super traditional rooms to modern for an eclectic vibe to rustic. Can't go wrong with this style.

Shawna's Kitchen at The Kitchn

House Beautiful

Next up is the Lovely Lanterns, not just for foyers or lamp posts anymore. These fixtures are making a huge statement all over the house these days, and I think they look great over a kitchen island or in multiples marching down a corridor.

Then we have Oversized, and not for the faint of heart as far as design goes. These chandeliers command the room, just make sure you have something positioned underneath, ottomans, coffee and dining table do great!

House Beautiful

Restoration Hardware

And lastly, my favorite lighting trend right now is to Double Up. If you love one of it, you are sure to love two! This concept is especially helpful if the fixture you select gets a little lost on its own, bringing reinforcements to the party helps balance out the space.

LLH Designs

Atlanta Homes Magazine

Veranda Interiors

All other images via Pinterest

Foodie Friday ad Happy Early Cinco

2014-05-02T07:30:00.000-05:00

Monday's Cinco de Mayo and us southerners love any chance to eat Tex-Mex, its definitively a staple around here. In any case, most people can toss back a few good Margies and fiesta your pants off on a Monday then be productive at work the next day (unless you're a complete rock star I suppose). So to start your Mexican Independence Day Weekend off the right way, here's a pretty stellar dip recipe and of course a few Mexico inspired interiors to get you in the spirit.

Taco Dip

1 can refried beans (16oz)
1 pkg cream cheese softened
1 cup sour cream
2 tbs taco seasoning mix
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
1/2 cup pitted ripe olive, chopped
2 tbs cilantro, chopped
1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread refried beans over bottom of an oven safe 9x13ish) dish. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, and garlic. Then spread over beans, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Top with chopped olives, tomatoes, cilantro and green onions. Serve with tortilla chips (and if you can find them, Julio's, you'll be hooked!)

And then for a little atmosphere-

How cool are these decals for a quick little update for a party or to bring some color to your back splash?

Foodie Fridays: Healthy Sweet Potato Chicken Chili

2014-04-11T08:04:00.000-05:00

This weird weather has my allergies going Kookoo, and that means a yucky throat. This hit the spot, was healthy and super easy!

Healthy Sweet Potato Chicken Chili

1 small Onion, minced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 Jalapeno, minced (remove seeds if you don't want it too spicy)
2 medium sized Sweet Potatoes
2 14 oz cans of chopped Fire Roasted Tomatoes with Garlic, undrained
1 14 oz can Black Beans
2 T Butter or Olive Oil
2 t Chili Powder
1/2 t Salt
1.5 lbs Chicken Breast, poached and shredded.( I just used a roasted chicken from the grocery and shredded it by hand)
5 cups organic Chicken Broth
3 T ground Flaxmeal
Cilantro
Cojita Cheese

Saute garlic, onion, and jalapeno in butter in large soup pot over medium heat until tender. Add Chili Powder, salt and potatoes and saute until until sweet potatoes are lightly browned. Add tomatoes, black beans, shredded chicken, and broth. Stir and cover with a tight fitting lid and keep over medium for 45 minutes without stirring. After 45 minutes, uncover. If you want your stir a little more soupy, add 2 cups of water or less and stir to combine. Add flax and stir again. Serve with chopped Cilantro and Cojita cheese.

Photo and Recipe adapted from Pinch of Yum

A renovation that will make your jaw drop.

2014-04-08T08:43:00.000-05:00

I came across this project out of Atlanta that I really couldn't believe the transformation. I think If I walked into this house in the before shots, I would have slowly backed out, but this rehab designer Carl Mattison made it his mission to buy houses in his own cherished neighborhood, fix them up and find good owners who will love them. I couldn't believe my eyes.

I do love a good Queen Anne, but this home looked like it was on the brink of collapsing.

Carl Mattison Design

After removing the 1980's vinyl siding, the original wood was underneath, with a few repairs and fresh coat of paint, this house is so, so inviting.

I think at this point I would have had to take a different approach to looking through his house. This would be a,"what can I save moment" instead of "how great is this space?" Scary

I love the light gray painted doors on the interior, classic, but unexpected.

This kitchen looks like something out of a horror flick...what happened to the cabinets?!!?

The designer used an arabesque pattern for the backsplash, he thinks its a modern day subway tile. Very unique!

The original hardware had long since been painted over. The owner boiled the paint off to restore to its original color. I love a good pocket door, such a great space saver!

An odd chase had been built in between these two rooms, and since the house already had two other fire places they decided to remove this.

A refinished tub looks as good as new!

Who wouldn't adore a little coffee bar in the mornings to get ready!?

If you have time take a look at his online portfolio, such great rehabs! Love to see this kind of care given to old homes. Great Job Carl!

Foodie Fridays: Brie and Apple Cresecents

2014-04-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

So last Friday night was a girl's night at my place ala "Pinterest Party." All of the girls brought something they have pinned but haven't gotten around to making and we made tulle and Ribbon Wreaths. A few of the recipes were definite keepers. So today I'm sharing Amanda's Brie Crescents (and I don't really even like brie y'all)....so good!

Brie and Apple Crescents

1 green apple (sliced thin and peeled)
1 package of crescent dough
Brie, sliced in about 1" pieces
Whole Pecans
Honey

Roll out crescent dough on non stick surface, use pre-cut triangle shapes. Layer a slice of apple, slice of brie, one whole pecan and a light drizzle of honey. Wrap up and secure the dough on all sides so no filling is showing, otherwise the cheese will run out like the picture. Repeat for all, then bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes or so until lightly browned.

Jessica Simpson's Hidden Valley Home for Sale

2014-04-03T08:15:00.000-05:00

I haven't been keeping in touch with the ex America's Sweetheart too much lately, well besides sky high shoes and babes, she hasn't been in the spotlight..and I can't really blame her.

So when I saw that her Hidden Valley BH mansion was up for sale(for a measley $8 mil), I kind of expected something similar to her "Newlyweds" modern style decor, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a completely enchanting, stylish home. A little too shabby chic for me, but after all Rachel Ashwell of Shabby Chic Couture was the designer. With a few tweaks I would move right in, no problem!

A classic sweeping stairwell, with a gorgeous chandelier and a lovely vignette greeting you as you walk in. The flower arrangements are the perfect pop of color throughout

This has be may favorite room so far, the white slipcovers, rustic ottoman, dark wood floors, rawhide, the high gloss ceiling planks, the woven shades and that patio! What a relaxing media room.

This kitchen proves that wood painted knobs and a stainless steel countertop can be stylish and warm. I'm also adoring the tonal checkerboard floor, very subtle and out of the norm.

Maxwell's Room is probably where I draw the line on the floral. I think that they could lose the wallpaper, do a solid gray or pale pink color and it would be a much stronger design...oh and the window treatments are a bit much. Adorable bed though!

This master is such a beauty! I love the subtle blues and of course dripping chandeliers are a home run. Could you just die over that patio?!?!?

The timelessness of this bathroom is awesome, I love a good hexagon floor, but I think someone missed the mark on that base color.

This 5,500sf house has been home to many a celeb including our girl Ellen D-- I can't imagine why anyone would ever want to leave this backyard, especially with Cali weather.

The front door is somewhat of a disappointment, I'm 99% sure that we are seeing a screen door in front of a solid color door behind, but it comes off as a wacky paint job. The concept may come off a little better if the screen door got a matching paint color. My vote is black, high gloss :)

Can you imagine coming up to this entry area for a dinner party at night? Nailed it.

Images via Sotheby's International Realty

Bathroom Progress: The Reveal

2014-04-01T09:08:00.001-05:00

FINALLY, we have a guest bath again!!!! Downloadable photos and a few lessons learned-

- Don't half ass a project. We originally were going to keep the shower as existing- it had white tile, nothing fancy, but went with the scheme. When you install everything pretty a new around it, the old white tile looks like crap.

- Everything takes longer than anticipated. EVERYTHING.

- Drywalling isn't as hard as I thought it was...electrical is.

-I need to take a class on my camera.

Without further adieu, here it is in all its glory-

Sink/ Mirror/Light Fixture

I love, love, love the sink. It has tons of storage and it was pretty easy and a great price point. When I originally came up with my design, I had also went with the IKEA faucet, but found this antique brass looker on Ebay. I love the warmth that it brings to the sink. I used the train rack for extra TP storage, because don't you hate it when you are in someones bathroom and they are out of TP, you carefully look through the cabinet hoping for extra and nothing. Well this keeps them in plain view and I'll also know when to refill.

Rug/ Door Knob

I'm in love with the way the carrera floor came out. 6"x12" laid in a herringbone, with a light grey grout. Timeless and classic. To go with the turn of the century vibe, we installed the bead board extra high (5'-0). Its my professional opinion to NEVER install those 3'-0" pre-cut sizes they have in the store. I bought 3 4'x8' pieces and had them cut it down, plus you don't have to worry about outlets (usually).

For the Shower Faucet, my plumber thought I was insane to choose a "Champagne Bronze"...hey, he already talked me out of the gorg vintage looking fixtures from China. I really wanted something with warmth, but wasn't going to blow my budget with Kohler's Purist line. My endless hours of searching the net paid off when I found Delta's Trinsic. A perfect brushed brass look, for hundreds less. (I had recently taken a shower in these photos, so they are little spotty.)

Coat Hook

And as promised, here was my inspiration board to sell to the hubs...as you can tell he bought it :)

The paint colors we used are Benjamin Moore's Palladian Blue and the ceiling, wainscoting, and doors are Benjamin Moore's White Dove. This matches closely with the white color from IKEA's cabinet.

Bathroom Progress: Photo Fail

2014-03-28T09:33:00.000-05:00

So our shiny new bathroom and I had an amazing photo session last night. I was contorting my body for great angles, the bathroom was popping its hip and make sure its double chin wasn't showing....it was chemistry. Cut to this morning, I skipped my happy butt into work to download my 75 images and make magic and Murphy's Law- I can't open the RAW files.......... #!$*&@!

So I will be re-shooting this weekend and promise to show the reveal on Monday *sigh* very anticlimactic, I know, so sorry!

But on somewhat happier news I have an Amazeballs recipe for ya'll today. If you live anywhere near a Chuy's Tex Mex (they just opened one less than a mile from mi casa-HEAVEN). The greatness that is Creamy Jalepeno is probably the top reason I go. I mean, I dip my chips in it, I put it on my salad, I use it in my shrimp tacos. Its liquid crack basically. Well found a copycat recipe and NAILED it. Try it ya'll!

CopyCat Chuy's Creamy Jalapeno

1 cup mayo
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 (4oz) can chopped jalapenos, drained
1 (4oz) can chopped green chilies, drained
1 (1oz) packet dry ranch dressing mix
1/3 cup fresh cilantro
1/2 tsp fresh garlic

Put all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. That's it!

Flipping Out's Jeff Lewis Gramercy Perfection

2014-03-26T10:15:00.004-05:00

I absolutely adore Jeff Lewis's show Flipping out, Jeff has impeccable taste, a great sense of humor and I would love to have a business model identical to his one day. At the end of last season he reunited with his house soul mate Gramercy to breathe the life back into it (he previously sold this home in 2006 for 2.6 million and re-purchased for 1.7)...this guy knows what he's doing ya'll.

So week to week, we get little snippets of this beautiful home along with his sarcasm, OCD, and torturing of his bizarre assistant Andy...oh and Jenni's rapping :)

Who doesn't love a little before and after???

Lovely millwork takes this to another level, and such a masculine feel right from the beginning.

Jeff switched out the marble on the island for a black marble and the wall cabinets got a light gray paint job and some glass fronts. He also switched the industrial pendants out for a mid century chandelier and planked the ceiling.

Such a cool fireplace right?!?! That screen is everything! Lightening up the beams and everything is a soft gray.

Jeff sure does love a good graphic!!!

In an interview with People, Jeff explained that he combined two bedrooms into one master and used a reclaimed brick on the bed wall. I love the use of built ins to keep everything crisp and clean and how awesome would a fireplace in the bedroom be??!?!

Jeff was inspired by clothing boutiques for his master closet, and I'd say he nailed it! So masculine, yet timeless.

The before images of the exterior are pretty good, but Jeff took it to another level with adding more brick tile flooring, landscape (and lighting!!) and a new paint scheme. Less beige, more gray.

How amazing is this view?! I'd love to have a cup of coffee here in the mornings!

Plenty of areas for entertaining, but I think the meter needs a little disguise Jeff...eyesore!

Such a lovely rolling hill, and I love the tiers of the patio.

Such a gorgeous landscape, invite me over anytime Jeff - I'll make the cockies!

Images via Jeff Lewis Design

Bathroom Progress Part Deux

2014-03-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

We are so close to finishing the bathroom that I can smell it...or maybe that's just the paint fumes. Anyway, I'll be doing the final reveal later on this week, but wanted to give you a little taste of what's been happening.

I created an inspiration board to share with the Hubs. Sort of a turn of the century vibe, classic, timeless, bright and refreshing, I'm keeping that under wraps until the big reveal because its pretty literal. But I will show where my whole scheme stemmed from. We took a Holiday Home Tour here in Dallas and I snapped this photo. This little moment that was happening was so lovely (actually the whole house was great) It looked like this-

Originally I wanted to go with all polished chrome and stick to a monochromatic whites, grays, and powdery blue scheme, but last minute I changed the metals to a brass...love me some brass lately.

Here's a little sneak peek from the hall, you can see the herringbone Carrera floor, painted wall and the DIY painted wall sconce.

I really was inspired by this RH Vintage Zinc Barn Sconce, but wanted something a little more polished, so purchased this Portfolio Outdoor Sconce from Lowe's and did a lot of taping a spraying.

On the interior I used a Valspar Metal Gold and for the exterior I used the Rustoleum Metallic Oil Rubbed Bronze to give it a little depth. I love the ORB and have used it a lot, it's almost black, but has a little brown sparkle to it. The Gold did a great job on this particular application as a small accent, but it is very gold, so if you are looking for something a little more brassy, Krylon Short Cuts in Gold Leaf is pretty good, just a tiny portion.

Last week, our Contractor installed the shower tile and not sure if you can tell from the amazingly straight lines on this subway install, but he's pretty amazing at what he does. We had the plumber raise the height on the shower head and also opted for 14" shower box since I don't want no shower caddy hanging from my beautiful new fixtures.

So exited to show you the rest, so stay tuned for the big reveal later on this week!

What I'm currently loving on Etsy

2014-03-20T11:56:00.001-05:00

Isn't Etsy like the coolest thing ever? I can literally spend hours perusing handmade crafts, art, food and antiques. It's pretty fantastic. Here are few of my favorite shops and items.

High Street Market is a collection of vintage antiques cultivated by an interior designer. Classic pieces that will be stylish forever.

This brass display box would be super cool as a terrainium on a window seal filled with a tiny succulent.

I love a coffee/tea break and this silver plated cream and sugar would totally amp of the fanciness of tea time. And the Greek key design makes it modern yet timeless.

I love the ornateness of this letter/napkin holder. Such a fun little moment of glam sitting on a desk or counter top.

HUUUUmmmpp DAAAY!!! I couldn't resist :) Hands down the best looking camel, and this could go anywhere, bathroom, mantels, kids room. So fun!

Ok so lets talk Art. Tons and TONS of amazing finds. Speaking of kids....These cant help but put a smile on your face at Coco de Paris

Or if you are the eclectic type that needs a little funk-

How cool would this be as a wedding gift framed? Very original for sure.

Quite the quirk, don't you think?

If you aren't into the pop art per se, maybe Clare Elsaesser's paintings are more your style. Her work has such a calming feeling to them.

I just love Married to the Sea- the water and sky and the way she captured this moment. So great.

Or this moment of pure adrenaline and freedom in Happiness

Don't you want to be there? This would be presh in a bathroom.

If you are into something a little darker, there are some amazing thought provoking items as well.

Rosie

Dark Seas

Young Love

Or maybe you're looking for playful art. Janet Hill studio has a fun emotion and a very fresh but retro vibe.

I love a good shoe! These would be amazing in a girls room, dressing room, closet, powder. So, So cute!

Lucy

Miss Moon was a dog Governess

Fairy Godmother

Besides Art and Interior design, the clothes are jewelry are pretty one of a kid as well. I bought tons of stuff off of there for our wedding.

Birdcage Veil

Garter

My robe as well as the flower girls dresses and hair flowers

I think that the ballet flats by Dori and Michele at The White Ribbon are so adorable. Sort of a ballet meets beach girl...oh and they are up cycled--even better! And so many great choices

Happy Shopping!

Foodie Fridays: Naughty Deep Dish Bourbon Apple Pie

2014-03-07T08:03:00.001-06:00

About a month ago we had a Birthday Crawl for a friend through the up and coming Bishop Arts in South Dallas's Oak Cliff. And for desert we ended up at Emporium Pies which of course-was in a cute 1920's house that was completely renovated to an adorable pie shop and kitchen and stacked at least 30 people out of the door.

The Hubs and I shared the Snowball (I'm a sucker to coconut!) and the Lord of the Pies with Ice Cream (apple). Well the LOTP won and I should've known because it was the only pie that was $1 more. Talk about flaky crust, stacks of apples(apparently 10 whole apples go in to every pie), warm caramel and crunchy cinnamon streusel - it was so worthy of a copy cat or something!

Well I got an itch this week to re-create or at least find an equally drool worthy recipe (this one is Naughty because it has a little extra kick with the Bourbon), and with a few tweaks from a couple of recipes I think I found it. And Holla!....the Hubs said it was equally as good- but Ice cream is a must (I used homemade whip). Let me put this out there though, this took a LONG time to make. Fulfilling, but long. However- this baby might help out and shave like 25-30 minutes from your prep time, I sure could have used it! Also, these pies tend to get a little Paula Deen with the butter, so I cut some of that down as well as used Xylitol instead of white sugar to cut back (a little).

Naughty Deep Dish Bourbon Apple Pie

Crust:
2 Cups All Purpose
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons Xylitol
11 tablespoons of chilled butter, cut into small pieces
4 to 5 tablespoons ice water

Using a food processor, pulse to combine the flour, salt and Xylitol. Add butter until the mixture looks crumbly. Add 4 tablespoons of water and pulse until the dough begins to form a ball or crumbles. If it seems like it never gets there, add the 5th tablespoon and pulse. Gently mold the dough into a disk and wrap with plastic wrap. Chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, roll out with a rolling pin or similar until the dough will cover bottom and a little over half way up the side of a 10" spring form pan. Fold down side to make it a little extra thick and even all the way around.

Crumb Topping:
1/2 cup pecans, lightly toasted
1/3 cup Xylitol
3 tablespoons of brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/3 cup all purpose flour
5 tablespoons chilled butter

Coarsely chop toasted nuts (I put them on a baking sheet and popped them in the toaster oven for about 5 minutes, be careful! They burn easily!) In food processor, process sugars, cinnamon, salt and flour for about a minute. Add butter and pulse until mixture is crumbly. Stir is pecans and and then refrigerate, covered until ready for use.

Filling:
5 to 6 medium tart apples, peeled and sliced thin(I used a mandolin, so the filling will look more layered)
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
1 cup Xylitol
3/4 cup Bourbon
1/2 cup Heavy Cream

Set oven to 375 degrees. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium and add sugar, cinnamon and sugar, stir until combined. Pour in bourbon and simmer at least 5 minutes for the alcohol to burn off. Add cream and continue to cook until mixture starts to thicken. Add peeled, sliced apples and gently stir until coated.

Pour filling into unbaked crust and evenly top with crumb topping. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the topping has browned. Serve warm or at room temperature with ice cream or whipped cream.

Photo via

Washington School House Hotel

2014-02-27T15:29:00.001-06:00

This fabulousness has made its rounds since its debut in 2011, but I can't help but share--it's just too good! This 1898 school has been revived to be like, the chicest ski lodge ever. Reclaimed oak barn wood floors, hand picked antiques, real silver flatware, crystal chandys, eclectic art and lots of white. I know where I'll be staying if I ever make it out to Park Cities UT! Oh and they promise to upload pictures as they change and cultivate- SWOON!

Everything about this is perfection, the board and batten, the mirror, the painted stone fireplace, the rustic/dripping with crystal chandelier, the white linen slip covers, the oak washed table--my list goes on.

This is a GREAT inspiration for those of you who have basements. Slate tile, TONS of lighting and white walls.

I love that the designer stayed true with the period in details. This porcelain knob is timeless

You know how I am with white kitchens

All photos via Washington School House Hotel

Style Sass: Poppy Delevingne

2014-02-20T08:55:00.000-06:00

It's been forever since I've last done a Style Sass, but with the evolution of fashion bloggers I think there's a surplus of great style these days....minus the Duck/Sparrow Face trend (what the?!?!?!).

Anyway, just like our hottie Kate Moss, Poppy Delevingne (pronounced De Le Veen) has amazing style without looking like she cares- a girls ultimate fashion dream right?!?

So this British Model, like most of these Sassy girls, knows how to work her best feature-her Legs.

I would call this a sweater and wear over jeans top myself, but girl work it!

Next is Poppy's amazing shoe collection- like amazing. This girl can rock a fierce shoe. And at 5'-10" she isn't afraid of a little sky. What I would do to raid this show collection, those gold numbers have my name written all over them.

Poppy is also rocking a lot of super funky handbags, and as a Chanel Brand ambassador, its not like she doesn't have tons to choose from.

And lastly, Poppy keeps her face and hair pretty natural in order to let her funky style steal the show. Generally a pop of color on the lip and a few swipes of mascara, but never fully done. I think she's perfected the natural/undone look.

Images via Google

Clam Digging

2014-02-19T08:53:00.001-06:00

Do you ever meet a design trend that you love, but can't figure out where it will fit into your house? For me, its pretty random, but I adore a giant clam shell...like they make me happy.- Interior Design Dork right here. Its probably a mix of the unexpected scale, the natural texture, and the frilly fronts that just make them so cool. So I'm putting it into the universe that I need one, oh and a spot in my house to display it :)

Newport Coastal

This indoor/outdoor entry is pretty killer even without the clam shell I'm not gonna lie.

Or for use instead of a champagne bucket. Oui s'il vous plait!

Or maybe to catch all of your corks

Black & Spiro

Lemons?!?!? I mean it really can do no wrong.

Gold leaf it? Pff duh!

This probably takes some extreme plumbing, but a super cool sink for a powder

Amanda Coral Interiors

I love a good Orchid and I think these pair together perfectly

Succulents, a patio and a giant clam is perfection.

So if you don't want to dish over $100 bucks for this awesomeness, here's a great DIY( just don't put it outside after all that work)

Katy's Cosy Cove

Happy Valentines Day!!!

2014-02-14T10:24:00.005-06:00

So I know about half of the population is V-day haters, but when it comes down to it every girl loves a little drippy heart felt romance for one day a year. "It should be Valentines day every year" is lame and would drive me nuts. Think about it, your man sending flowers and chocolates everyday....Kind of creepy and not good for the waistline. Too much a good thing is bad in this case. But, its still fun to have a Valentine and get into the spirit (I'm rocking my red skinnies today as a matter of fact).

So my not too overly sweet ode to the Day Designated to Love-

Houzz

Aesthetic Outburst

Style within Reach

Etsy

And don't forget a little sweet treat- Red Velvet Whoopies are super easy and so pretty displayed on a cake stand. Besos!

House of Windsor aka Gwenyth's LA Pad

2014-02-11T08:49:00.005-06:00

So I these images have been circulating around the web since like ever, but this is my go to inspiration house, no joke. It has classic architecture, whimsical accents and pretty fun moments. I mean, I don't think a horse barn is somewhere where I thought "Gorg! I'd hang out there." But this one does it.

I love the entry, not fussy, clean and classic. And I LOOOOOVE a good ranch style house.

The entry hall is large and not lacking any style, honed marble in s more subtle palette, moldings galore and curated antique pieces.

This Kitchen. Epic. Reclaimed wood floors, marble slabs, vintage accents and I love that its the old eat in style that got replaced by islands. Its not your normal kitchen...its more like a french patisserie no?

The sitting room still keeps neutrals, but amps it up with some fun accents that look very cultivated. The vintage columns and mirrors, with pop photography and African prints keep it casual.

The movie room designed by Martin Bullard, has a man cave/ theater vibe and keeps it fun with the all over prints with a light background and cushy artistic couches.

A soft and serene guest wing. What great detailing on the shower in the guest bath!!

The master is soothing and with french doors leading out to the back yard, who wouldn't want to wake up in here?!?! I also love the transoms above the doors to help move the light through the house, but also the iron X design that is subtly repeated through the house.

"Her" bathroom. Love.

Another bedroom, girly but kind of hippie at the same time.

And of course that barn!!! Can you imagine having Lunch or Coffee or Thanksgiving or a Birthday Party out there?!?!?! Couldn't be cooler .

All images via Veranda and SoHaute

Foodie Fridays: Reese's Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Dip

2014-02-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

I made this for our Superbowl Dip Party, and it was a complete hit. Like so good people were asking for the recipe good. It was practically crack desert dip.

Reese's Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Dip

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/4 creamy peanut butter
8 oz, cream cheese, softened
3/4 powdered sugar
1 t vanilla extract
1/2 cup semi sweet mini chocolate chips
8 oz pkg of Reese's peanut butter cup mini ( or about 1 1/2 cup chopped Reese's cups)

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in sugar and heat until sugar dissolves (about a minute) Remove from heat immediately , add vanilla and allow to cool to room temperature (IMPORTANT!)

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and peanut butter until creamy (about 3-4 minutes, don't skimp on this!) On low, add in cooled brown sugar mixture. Mix until combined. Fold in chocolate chips and cups. Serve or store in refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy with pretzels, animal crackers and graham sticks.

Recipe and Photo via Shugary Sweets