Stylish Spaces Designed For Living

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall...

2012-03-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Every room should have at least one mirror! They can bounce light around in a room that doesn't get a great deal of natural lighting or one that has a dark wall finish. They can obviously, serve a functional purpose in entries, bathrooms, bedrooms, etc. They can also add interest as a piece of art. There are so many types of frames, finishes, sizes, and forms! The selection is so great that you are able to find that special piece for any application. I had some wooden chargers that I knew I would never use as chargers that I took to a local glass and mirror company and had glass placed on them! Now they hang on my living room wall in a composition of four! The options are endless!

These are the chargers that became mirrors! This room is currently undergoing a makeover that I am so excited about and cannot wait to unveil when completed!

Have a terrific weekend!

Rhonda

*Original image credits my Elements Board via Pinterest

An Appreciation Of Art: Work Space Of The Week

2012-03-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Lonny Magazine

I love the concept of this workspace and could totally see myself doing something very similar to this. I would have to rearrange some of the photos, or honestly, just remove them completely! Hey! When you're working you need to be focused on the task at hand! Black, in interiors, is so fantastic! It can be sexy, glamorous, obviously modern; definitely not a color for the faint at heart! It takes courage to do a black room! The great thing about this one is how the white matte gallery frames reflects light where the black would usually absorb it! Such a great space!

Much happiness to you all,

Rhonda

Inspiration: All Things Lovely

2012-03-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

I just thought I would put together some images that make me feel "pretty". It's something, to look back on images and see how they reflect the mood or attitude I have at that moment. For instance, this posting, I'm feeling very special, very loved, very blessed, and taken care of. What an amazing feeling to have! These are very lovely images of a feeling and mood that I hope to introduce into my home. At the end of the day, it really is all about how you feel in your home and what you want your home to say about you. Maybe this is a side of you that you don't allow many to see, but it's there, just waiting to be revealed! Now get inspired!!!

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

I wish for you a phenomenal day!

Rhonda

An Easter DIY Project My Daughter Will Love!

2012-03-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

I'm scanning through the blogs that I follow and happened upon this posting from one of my favorite and most inspirational blogs Zsa Zsa Bellagio via Roy Joy An Adventure Blog! I love this! My daughter is going to go bananas when I show her this!

I whipped up this little DIY project the other day with Megan, just in time for Easter. We loved the natural, organic feel and the upcycling of the egg cartons, shells, moss, and succulents (which we got out of Megan's yard). It's such as easy project - you can easily complete it in an hour, and would be fun with kids too! I love having my little egg shell garden on the windowsill - it's a bright burst of springtime. :)

Items needed: Dirt (we used potting soil), egg shells, moss, succulents, and flowers (optional).

Step 1: Fill the empty egg shell with some potting soil.

Step 2: Add succulent sprigs. Our pieces still had some substantial roots, so hopefully they'll keep growing in our little egg shell pots.

Step 3: Add a layer of moss over the top of the soil. Feel free to break it apart and squish in under the leaves, as needed.

Step 4: If you like, add a few sprigs of lovely flowers to infuse with color.

To store: cut off the sides of an egg carton, and fill with completed egg shells.

Enjoy your beautiful Easter succulent garden!

Roy Joy, Easter DIY: An Indie Twist On The Easter Egg

Oh my gosh! Is that not the cutest thing! I didn't know this blog existed until going to Zsa Zsa Bellagio! Yaay for me because I have now added them to my blog list! I hope you guys are doing incredibly well today!

Rhonda

Another Great Weekend At The Market!

2012-03-12T13:39:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! I know that I am posting a bit late today and I do apologize! There are quite a few balls that I'm juggling, so please forgive me! Thanks, I knew you would! I am just arriving at the market in this photo. Ready to maneuver up and down the aisles for treasure! I say maneuver because it's pretty crowded there! So here's a re-cap of some of the really great finds at The Scott's Antique Market over this past weekend!

I was so happy for the sun to be beaming brightly on Saturday! Especially since on Friday it was overcast and rainy! What's in the bag? Oh, just a notebook, pencils, tapemeasure, camera, cash, and breath mints! Don't leave home without them!

Hunter Corso of Delta Designs had really great pieces that are made from reclaimed wood! I picked up a couple of wall ledges that I plan to use in my foyer or family room. I was pleased to discover that he lives in the Atlanta metropolitan area and does custom design projects! Hunter was super nice and happily added the hangers to the back of my ledges so that I would have to later! Thanks, Hunter!

I absolutely love these doors! I can think of a few applications for these! They are gorgeous! I hate that this chair didn't photograph as beautifully as it is! The chinoiserie upholstery and wonderful wood frame make for a really lovely chair to accent a special decor!

What a great cabinet! I love the details! I would find a place for this piece! A great traditional wingback just waiting to be personalized with amazing fabric! Hmmm, I can think of a couple of lines I would source from specifically for this chair!

This is a great chest that is upholstered in linen fabric with an intricate nailhead detail. I kept studying it to see if it is something that I can try with a chest that I just purchased from Marshalls or TJ Maxx for $129! I'm not much of a DIYer but I would give it the old college try! A pair of stools by the same vendor that caught my eye! I took one of their cards and of course, now I can't find it! I am so sorry! He was very nice and charming! I thought the way another vendor displayed silver chargers and platters was fantastic! Over the years I've amassed so many of these pieces, so this was a really interesting way to pull them out of the closet! Oh, but mine are Silver, not silver plated...moving on!

These lovelies were found at the space of Collections 77! I had an opportunity to speak with Rebecca who was so pleasant and informative! The set on the left were already sold by the time I stopped by and the pair of dining chairs were my considerations! They somewhat put me in the mind of the deconstructed look that Restoration Hardware has rolled out for spring, 2012.

Finally, these chairs were one of my favorites! Why? Because they are huge! I could literally curl up in one of these and read! And fall asleep! I was loving this rod iron piece! It weighed a ton! Or so it seemed! I thought about a photo I saw of an interior window that was framed in a piece like this that I thought was fabulous! Oooh, I would so do that!

My ever fashionable design assistant leaving the market happy with our finds for the day!

Have a fantastic day,

Rhonda

Step Into The Foyer!

2012-03-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to have Mari from Design Shuffle as my guest today! She is going to share with you some amazing ideas for your foyer!

Hello, everyone! It's Mari here from Design Shuffle, a fabulous social networking site for interior designers and design enthusiasts to upload their work and receive lots of exposure. One the most interesting aspects of being a writer for Design Shuffle is visiting interior design blogs like Rhonda E. Peterson to share some of my favorite rooms.

Today's guest post is all about foyers—one of the most important spaces in a home. Whether it is grand and glamorous or small and sedate, the foyer gives guests a glimpse of what's to come. It can create intrigue and excitement—showcasing the style, color palette and personality of a home's décor. Can you tell I love foyers and all the possibilities they offer?

Grand in its simplicity, this lovely foyer takes full advantage of architectural elements and scale. But for the glamorous crystal chandelier, this space is a study in the elegance of neutrals and understatement.

This inviting entry shows that not all beautiful foyers are large separate spaces. The chandelier above and rug underfoot create that foyer feel. A long narrow see-through table adds visual interest without impeding the traffic flow from the front door.

How beautifully filled with the homeowners personality is this entryway corner? Guests immediately know this is going to be an interesting adventure in interior design.

A massive floor mirror can be used to give the illusion of more space in a foyer while it reflects available light for an open airy feel.

An inviting space filled with decorating ideas, this foyer is at once stylish and comfortable. What a creative use of wall paper, a charming way to add paper without overwhelming the eye.

Not often seen in a foyer, mirror image vignettes seem perfect for this long wide foyer. Placing floor tiles on the diagonal is an easy way to add visual width to an entry hall.

This stylish banquette takes full advantage of an arched niche and makes this foyer much more than a space to pass through on the way to another room.

Here a glamorous circular foyer offers entrance to the rooms that surround it. From the inlaid wood floor to the decorative painting on the ceiling, this space is all about using circles to create excitement.
It seems there are as many different interior designs for foyers as there are spaces to be made into beautiful entryways. What will we see if we step into your foyer? Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

The foyer is the first place your guests see when entering your home. How do you style your foyer? Find a surplus of ideas at Design Shuffle! You'll have the opportunity to see inspiration and connect with San Diego interior designers, Chicago interior designers, and many others!

Thanks Mari! What an amazing post! You definitely have me taking a closer look at my foyer! I hope you guys enjoyed this posting as much as I did! Have a fantastic weekend and we'll talk very soon!

Rhonda

With A Man In Mind

2012-03-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

I love men! Especially those that have their own distinctive style! Better yet, those that have this unassuming quality that allows them to project a quiet confidence and comfort in their skin. He can be well dressed. Yes, that's nice! Very well spoken and well travelled is also a plus, oooh and smells nice...but the way he lives, in my opinion, speaks louder. To me! I understand that there are a lot of guys out there that just don't put very much thought into how they live and what they wear! What should that tell you? Hmmm...No, they are not slobs or bad people! They probably just need someone to help them along the way! If you are the one that is going to help him find his way and his style, please be mindful of his personality, his interests, and what moves him. He will be so grateful and appreciate all of your efforts! This applies to family, friends, and significant others!

Have a wonderful day!

Rhonda

*Images

My Bathroom Bliss!

2012-03-07T10:20:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure why, but my need for a beautiful (and functional) bathroom is at the very top of my list when it comes to loving my home! I don't spend a great deal of time here, but I do spend some of the most important moments of my day here. In the mornings, when I'm getting ready for my day, I'm focused on putting my best self forward. So, it only stands to reason that I would want my surroundings to reflect what it is that I would like to project to the world! In the evenings, when I get ready to retire for the day, I'm wanting to unwind and relax. What better way to do this than in a place that makes you feel good? A place that is not only nice to look at, but one that also meets every functional need that is required of the space.

This bathroom is gorgeous! The upholstered studded doors that open to reveal a bathtub where you can soak and let the pressures and stresses of the day just fall away, sitting atop flooring that is amazing! The large mirror and pendant adds a very glamorous element, and of course, the lovely French chair that is waiting to assist in whatever way necessary. The only thing missing from this photo is a soft, lofty rug to step out on that will be a treat for my feet! Ahhhh...

Have a lovely Wednesday, my Friends,

Rhonda

*Image

They're Not New, But I Love Them, Chevron Stripes!

2012-03-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

Although it's nothing new to use chevron stripes in interiors or clothing, I still love how it adds so much interest and personality to both!

Until next time!

Rhonda

Images

A Re-Cap Of A Wonderful Weekend!

2012-03-05T09:53:00.002-05:00

Hello there! It's Monday, and I'm feeling fantastic! I had such a terrific weekend! It was busy, busy, busy! I got some much needed work done, met one of favorite people for lunch, wish I had pictures to show, did a little shopping, caught up on some reading, and oh the biggest thing...GOT A NEW HAIRCUT!

Catalogs that have been sitting on my desk waiting to be looked through!

Fashion mags that I subscribe to that I was able to make a dent in!

What's left of the March interior design mags I still need to go through! Already receiving April!

Banana Republic

When the weather warms up, I am a white T-shirt, button down, or wife beater with shorts, pants, or skirts, and ballerinas, sandals (heels or flats) kinda girl! This is going to look amazing!

Banana Republic

Same here! But this is going to look really good with my tan! Yes, I get small amounts of sun! Trust me, you would suggest it! Yes, I use sunscreen (year round, as a matter of fact)!

I have not worn my hair this short since my modeling days! This proves my courage and bravery! I am a woman of a certain age and yet I am publishing a picture for countless people to see with very little makeup and no re-touching! I know, right! Oh, when I saw the finished cut, I thought to myself, "Dear God, I am my mother"! LOL! I am definintely a "mini" her!

Ahh, memories! Great times! Fun times! This was the very last comp card I did before hanging up my stilettos! Ha!

Via

xoxo,

Rhonda

I'm Loving This Color Combination!

2012-03-02T12:43:00.000-05:00

Today is Friday! I am thrilled! This has been a weird week for me. I feel like I didn't get all that much accomplished. I have been running like a mad woman from sun up to sun down and way past, but it seems not very much got done. Have you ever had a week like that? I'm sure! Of course, I'm having to work this weekend to get back on track going into next week, so please excuse my absence if you don't see me until Monday!

I've been putting together a few color palettes for clients and mint and seafoam green paired with taupe and white have been really resonating with me! So much so, until I've been pulling items out of drawers and my closet that I had forgotten about and am now wearing. I've also been noticing this color a lot more while I'm out sourcing! What do you think of this color combination?

I hope for you all an amazing weekend!

Rhonda

*Images

Girly Glam!

2012-03-01T11:32:00.001-05:00

I'm just popping in for a minute to give you guys a little treat! I'm having my root canal done today and I'm swamped with a couple of projects that I'm trying to bring to completion! Yaaay!!! I hope you have the most amazing day and are happy beyond all expectations!

I pinned this image on Pinterest! Isn't it great! Such a pretty, girly space! I love the sofa! It's got such a great shape and lovely velvet rose upholstery. The wall art above and the draperies are a wonderful complement to the sofa and really enhance the girly glam feel of this intimate interior. This is a fantastic example of how using things that you love, regardless to style or color, comes together to make an awesome place to sit, relax, and entertain!

This is how you turn ordinary randomness into loveliness! Don't have any small trays, bowls, teacups, plates around that you can use for catchalls on your besided table, vanity, desk, or counter? Yeah right! These pretty little things can be found literally everywhere in prices that range from next to nothing to oh my! When you're out again, just keep your eyes peeled! You'll find them!

xoxo,

Rhonda

It's Electric...Nuggets Of Blue And Dollops Of Green!

2012-02-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

May I speak candidly? When I begin most of my postings, I usually don't have a clue as to what I'm going to blog about! I'll open up Power Point so I can place images that interest me and before I know it, I have a common theme going! It is sometimes a certain style, room, color, or various elements, but it's always consistent. Funny how that happens! I tell my clients to not be afraid of buying things they love or are strangely attracted to, for fear they won't "go together" because they will! Your eye and heart are usually going to gravitate to things that have a consistent "something". From that point, it's all a matter of arrangement. It becomes like a puzzle and trying different pieces until you find just the right fit and combination.

This week is flying by! Whew! Until next time,

Rhonda

*Images

Inspirations For My Bathroom Bliss!

2012-02-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I really like nicely done bathrooms! They don't have to be huge with a lot of decorative accents or fixtures, or any certain style. To be quite honest, I don't actually have a "style"! I enjoy spacious, lovely accessorized bathrooms and I also love very minimal, simple, and clean. My preference is that they are always "clean"! Anyhoo! I am literally inspired by any and everything! That's the one thing that I do love about "creative" types! Yes, I do consider myself a "creative" type! I am inspired by makeup, clothing, accessories, definitely nature, and oooh beautiful food! Oh and fragrance! Always because it evokes a memory! I hope you enjoy today's posting as much as I did putting it together!

Not as bright as "Tangerine Tango", but is such a wonderful unexpected pop of color in the draperies! And ya know what? That deer head does not even bother me! As a matter of fact, I plan on doing a couple of papier mache animal heads and/or antlers on one of my walls! Yes, it's true! Stay tuned for the pictures!

I so wish Elle Decor had published another view of this bathroom! I love the mocha walls, the black trim, the brass finishes, and the porcelain white sink! This bathroom gets amazing light and having the ceiling finish and flooring tile white and black, just really pulls this small space together! My favorite of this bathroom is the mirrored wall behind the sink and the brass etagere! Love!

Are you kidding me with that pendant! Glamorous! Again, a wonderful use of mirrors and what an incredible vanity! I'm loving the chevron tile! Design done well, my friends! Design done well!

I must admit, I probably would not have done two sinks on this size vanity, but I like it! For me, did you hear me? FOR ME, I need more space on the vanity. Not that I have to have things sitting out, because my preference is to have cleansers, moisturizers, etc. out of sight; I would just feel a bit cramped is all! But now, do I love the look? Absolutely! I think it's gorgeous! I am crazy about the mirror and the chandelier! I love the color palette! Modern glam with a Parisian twist!

Beautiful! Well edited! Love the light that is filtered through! Very nice indeed! This bathroom is relaxing and elegant!

This bath is spacious with a casual elegance. The natural elements add warmth and charm. It's a bathroom that I could linger in. You know, not be in a rush to leave! I would be in heaven if I had a bathroom that was spacious enough for me to have furniture in! In my opinion, the best designs are those that give each room a very lived in, liveable feel. I hope that makes sense! Just because it's a bathroom doesn't mean you can't elevate it to have more of a "room" feel!

I have loved this bathroom forever! It's masculine, but not to the point where I wouldn't feel comfortable relaxing here. What a wonderful idea it was to use the fireplace for displaying perfume bottles and other glassware! I like the wingback chair in the corner and the French chair right beside the tub. It is a very interesting and creative use of what looks to be a room that was renovated and transformed into a bathroom. The elements that have me sold are the finishes! I love the greige wall color, the dark wood finishes on the mirrors, fireplace, and frames, also the silver fixtures, and of course, the porcelain white of the pedestal sinks and tub! Not to mention the pure white towels and accessories! I love!

Hope you're having a great week!

Rhonda

*Unless otherwise noted, all images are via my Pinterest boards and my Tumblr. If you know the original sources, please e-mail me and I will post them. It is very important to give original credit where credit is due!

A Double Hitter...Fashion + Interiors!

2012-02-27T11:53:00.000-05:00

Oh my gosh! I watched ALL of the Academy Awards last night! I usually never do that! It was wonderful and I was inspired by the winners and their acceptance speeches! Congrats to them all! I bet that is the most amazing feeling! I have days when I can't imagine being happier than I am at that particular moment, so if it's anything like that, then WOW!!!

These images are sooo my style! I mean, really, they are! These are the clothes I would wear and the interiors I would live in. No, it isn't meant to be a "runway to room" posting! It is my imagination running wild! I would wear these pieces and live in these rooms! Why? Because it's just what I would do! Fabulous is as fabulous lives!

Have a fantastic week, Friends!

Rhonda

*All images and then some can be found on my Pinterest Boards or my Tumblr.

Happy Oscar Sunday!

2012-02-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

I usually don't watch the entire Oscar event. I really only watch the red carpet on E! and as much of the show as I can before falling asleep! For those of you who attend Oscar parties or throw them, I hope you have the most amazing time! And the Oscar goes to...

Until next time!

Rhonda

Have A Lovely Saturday!

2012-02-25T10:14:00.000-05:00

Well, today is Saturday and everyone is home! It looks like it's going to be a pretty nice day out! A little cool, but pretty nice just the same. Typically on Saturdays, we all prepare something that we each like for breakfast, wait, let me back that up...they will tell me what they want for breakfast and I will prepare it! Okay, that's more accurate! Then we'll all head out! Sometimes we'll have a specific agenda and sometimes, like today, not! I'm in the market for a new camera. I have a nice little Nikon point and shoot that takes pretty good photos. I used it when I shot A Taste Of Atlanta...Bungalow Classic. The pics were pretty good, but I really need a camera that is going to take AMAZING photos! I've been looking at the Canon EOS Rebel T2iD-SLR and the Sony NEX-5N Compact System. This one is a DSLR, as well! I really love the Sony! It feels really good in my hand, doesn't have all the little buttons, bells, and whistles that the Canon has, so for me this translates to being more user friendly, and I think at the end of the day, is going to be the better camera for what I need because of all of the other incredible features!

The pics below were taken with my iPhone via Instagram with one of the many filters! I like taking random shots of things around my house! I am always surprised at the inspiration that comes from them! The filters that I use most often with Instagram is Nashville and X-Pro II, but I also use Sutro and Brannan. When I shot the pics for my A Day At The Market posting I used my iPhone via Instagram! Instagram is such a fun way to snap photos and share them immediately because you just go into the Instagram app and start shooting! I can share on Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr, with a caption if I like, right there on the spot. Oh, I would love for you to follow me on Instagram if you're on or decide to come on board (prhondae). Let me explain why everything is prhondae...! Someone else has the audacity to have my name! Can you believe it! So, what I've done is taken the initial of my last name (P), and placed it first, use my entire first name (rhonda), and then follow it up with the initial of my middle name (E). My favorite number is 3, and that is why my Twitter name is prhondae3! Okay, so consider yourselves in the loop! LOL!!!

My Anthropologie picks! I love this owl! My friends think I'm nutty, but they're not surprised! I did a posting back in December, Amazing And Affordable...Wow! that featured the Owl cookie jar and the vase from Anthropologie. The small bowl is new and is in stores now. I bought a few of the bowls. I really don't know what for, but when it comes to things that I really like and am drawn to, I don't need to know it's purpose, because at some point, it will get used! Oh, and that owl cookie jar...will NEVER be used as a cookie jar! We have a very nice Tweety Bird cookie jar that is doing a wonderful job!!!

I love books! Have tons of them! This is why my home is littered with them! You will not find a corner, shelf, flat surface, or floor space that doesn't have books! These are probably my go to three for simple, creative ideas on "How To" whatever! The blue bud vase and colored tealight holder are from West Elm and both were featured in the posting Amazing And Affordable...Wow! From that posting I also featured pure white ceramic vases that I had to scoop up a few, to scatter around the house! The ceramic tray was found at again, Anthropologie!

This is a pic taken just the other night of items that are on my desk in my bedroom. I have a sitting area that is in my bedroom that I converted to an office. I need to hang a couple of beautiful draperies to really separate the spaces because as you can imagine, it stays pretty littered with work stuff that you just kinda don't want to see first thing in the morning! Most of the items shown in this pic were from West Elm and Z.Gallerie. I love having pretty votive holders, picture frames, and the like on or near my work space! I can look up and always see something that makes me happy and puts me in a good mood if I'm not already in one!

I keep old perfume bottles of fragrances that I've worn, especially if I think they're pretty! Why? Just because... I just never know what I'll need or use them for! The small silver tray I purchased on my trip to the last Scott Antiques Market. I plan on attending in March, as I am on the hunt for teacups and saucers, and Spode dinnerware, ooh, and maybe some antlers that I can paint and place on the massive walls that I have in my family room and foyer!

Have a Super Saturday!

Rhonda

PS. This was not an advertise posting for any of the above mentioned companies or apps!

Movie Set Designs That Inspire Me..."Somethings Gotta Give"

2012-02-24T13:23:00.003-05:00

I love rainy days! Especially when I'm caught up on my work, the kids are doing their thing, and I'm left to do whatever my little heart desires! Most of the time its sitting on the sofa, wrapped in a throw watching a movie that is reflective of the mood I'm in at that particular time. Well today, since the kids are home, I've pretty much given them the run of the house while I am holed up in my bedroom in my bed, which by the way, I love! No, there's not anything all that special about it except, I have nice bedding and lot's of pillows! It's soft and warm and just a heavenly place to be on a day like today! Anyhoo, I digress! I'm sitting in my bed with my laptop, iPad, iPhone, magazines, hot tea, and pistachios at hand! This is what I call heaven!

Okay, so the movie I'm watching is Somethings Gotta Give (romantic comedy, 2003), with Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton. I love this movie! It's so funny, has a great cast, and the set design is incredible! Of course, as soon as it was available on DVD, I pounced on it! I dream of having a beach house like the one Diane Keaton has in this movie! From the time Jack Nicholson and Amanda Peet pull into the drive of this home and open the front door, I am in a state of awe! Daydreaming! Hoping! Wishing! Praying that one day I would be able to design a home like this for me and my family! Ahhh, again, this is what I call heaven! This beach home is set in the Hamptons. Who wouldn't want a beach house in the Hamptons? But for me, there are so many areas closer to where I live, where this home would fit in quite nicely also have the charming markets and shops to spend the morning browsing and shopping!

I hear angels singing! Ha!Ha!Ha!Ha!Ha!

I would love to have a porch, veranda, lanai, portico...whatever suits your fancy!

This picture just does not do justice to the room as it is shown in the movie! You guys have got to see this room! It literally makes me swoon!

Rooms should be lovely to look at and wonderful to live in! Jack has no problem here enjoying all this room has to offer! And boy, you should have seen him jump off this sofa when he heard Diane drive up from her date with Keanu Reeves! Too Funny!

If your room is large enough to have intimate areas for other activities, then definitely take advantage of this! In every interior I design, I always try to carve out a space where one can sit quietly to enjoy reading, napping, or what have you, but still be apart of the larger room.

What a great place to read and enjoy a nice glass of wine or a cup of hot tea!

Such a wonderful dining area that is roomy, cozy, can be casual or formal, and has a place to display treasured collectibles!

This kitchen is totally my dream! I would be so happy with the different work areas and the storage space! Are you kidding me! Oh my Lord! There is a place for my cookbooks (yes, I look through them from time to time and dream about trying some of the recipes!). Look at all of the surfaces to prep and make pretty! Lol! I say make pretty because sadly, there is just not a lot of prepping going on in my kitchen! Well, I've always said that if I had a kitchen like this I would cook more! I would! Really!

So pretty!

I need that range! Yes, I would use it!

Oh my gosh! Look at all of the storage! For an organzation fanatic like me, this is the perfect kitchen!

The bedroom is fantastic! I mean, look at the open airiness that is created by the windows and doors! This means that it gets amazing light during the daytime hours!

My desk looks like this! Sometimes worse, but who would care with a view like that? What I find funny about this picture is this is probably the face my kids see when they come into the room when I'm in the midst of trying to work! God bless 'em!

Finally, at the end of my day...hmm, maybe even at the beginning, I could be found here! Alone, either getting my thoughts together to begin my day, or reflecting on all that I got accomplished and still need to get accomplished! Either way, whatever the case may be, I would know, just as I know now, how blessed I am to have the life I have and to be surrounded by the most phenomenal people!

Thanks for stopping by! Have the most incredible weekend possible!

Rhonda

*Google Images

Family Time

2012-02-23T14:45:00.001-05:00

Well, today is Thursday and it's actually quite late in the afternoon for me to be posting! I usually post very early in the mornings. My children are home for Winter Break this week, so I've been scheduling everything around them. Not that this week is any different from any other week! Oh, don't get me wrong, I am not complaining! I feel truly blessed that I am able to have a career where I can work my professional life around my family life. Well, most times anyway!

Noah is eleven and such a great kid with a wonderful spirit! Also, he loves his mom! I enjoy this because I realize there will come a day when his affection for me will be placed onto..., oh Dear Lord, I can't even bring myself to say it! Gillian is six, and watching her grow and find her voice and personality is like watching a television show! They both make me so happy and so proud to be their mom! Then there is Pete! I've loved him since the very beginning, twenty years ago! My very best friend! I cannot imagine my life without him!

This is the smile I wear as my uniform daily! I enjoy smiling! It makes me feel good to smile! My family tells me, when their day seems like nothing is going right, my smile let's them know that everything will be alright! I can't think of kinder words to hear from the mouths of those who are your world.

Taken at the home of one of my very best friends.

I apologize for not posting images of interiors and giving my colorful insight, but today, my family is what is inspiring more than anything else!

Have an amazing day!

Rhonda

They Are Back, And I Could Not Be Happier!

2012-02-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Every Sunday night at 9:00pm, I could be found sitting on my sofa with a glass of wine and some sort of bite-sized treat transfixed and transported to another era! The show, Mad Men. The era, early 1960's. I had done this every July since it's beginning on July 19th, 2007! But, oh no, not this past July! Well, they are back and I couldn't be happier! Happy doesn't even begin to describe how I'm feeling about its' return! Elated? March 25th can't get here quickly enough! Each time I saw the intro (click here to watch), fade onto my television screen, watching the gentleman falling as the theme song played, I knew I would not be disappointed by whatever happened behind the doors of Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency, the ad men of Madison Avenue!

What was so captivating for me from day one was the lifestyle of that time! The attitudes, the fashion, the interiors! I was sold! Bought and paid for, and would never be the same! I'm pretty certain this is where my love of Mid-Century modern furnishings began! Furniture that I remember vaguely, from my childhood, I now wish I had said to everyone in my family, "Stop! No, please don't give these pieces away! Keep them, store them! I will want them when I'm older and can appreciate the beauty of them!" But alas, I had no clue, and obviously nor did they!

This is Don Drapper's office! The show is centered around this dapper gentleman, that I don't think has met a woman who didn't want to be with him or a man who didn't want to be him! He's usually always pretty composed, but season 2, I think it was, he began to unravel! Many of the furnishings used on the set are originals! Room and Board, as well as Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams are great stores to find reproductions of these modern classics.

Donald Drapper, the man himself!

I love this shot! This angle puts me in the room! I actually feel as though I could walk in, have a seat on the sofa, and engage in a dry banter with a man that is as vulnerable as he is complex!

Roger Sterling's office! Beautiful! Smart! Well edited!

Roger and Don, always with a drink in hand, and usually a cigarette too! That was crazy for me, when the show first aired, to wrap my mind around being able to smoke and drink at work, in an office building! I guess it wasn't that long ago that smoking was banned in public buildings! But now drinking, I definitely don't remember that! Everyone smoked! And I mean smoked all of the time! I remember one episode when the Drappers pregnant neighbor was visiting Betty, and smoked the entire time she was there! I was like wow! how times have changed!!!

This is the kitchen in the home that Don shares with his wife Betty and two children, Sally and Bobby. Well, not anymore! Guys, if you haven't watched the show, I do recommend you get up to speed! I don't want to give too much info for those of you who may want to get in the know! I don't really see knotty pine making a comeback any time soon!

Don and Betty speaking with an interior designer, or "decorator" as they were called back then! It's only been in the last 15 years or so that we distinguish between the two.

Betty, Peggy, and Joan

I suppose I could go into detail about these women, but why would I do that? I will say, Peggy, in my opinion, probably made the biggest 180! Joan has always been pretty consistent, but not without her challenges for sure! I love her controlled sassiness! She will get you together and I love it! Betty? Betty, Betty! In the beginning, I adored her; but then, she got a little nutty!!! I can identify with each of their characters, though!

The cast! It truly is a fantastic show!

So for me, and I'm sure millions of others, the countdown has begun! Thirty-three days to go! I'm thinking of hosting my own premier party! If there's one thing I've learned from watching the show is how to throw a dynamite, intimate affair, sans cigarettes! If you don't already have plans to watch the show's premiere on AMC on March 25th, please make this apart of your evening and let me know what you think!

Have a fantastic day!

Rhonda

*Images

Work Spaces That Work!

2012-02-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had the weekend you set out to have! It sure makes it easier to get back to work today and the rest of the week! My weekend was fantastic! My son had a sleepover at a friends, so that left me and mini me (my 6 year old, going on 16, daughter) to have some bonding time! It was great because she needed that time alone with me and of course, I with her! We hit a couple of stores to do a little shopping. Nothing major! A few items from Ikea and a few from Z. Gallerie. I'll post pics of our finds a little later! I love that she has a very discerning eye for what she likes and how she will make it work! It makes my heart smile to see and hear the passion she has for those things that she finds beautiful and worthy of her attention! She is really interested in design and enjoys accompanying me on sourcing trips for clients. It's really cool! But then, she also wants to be a rock star, model, and actor! I did say mini me, right? I tell her, she can be and do whatever she chooses, so be choosy!

Okay, so back to the idea of "work"! Since I work from home, it is so important for me to have a space that motivates me to want to work! It has to get great sunlight, be very organized (I am an "everything has its' place" person), and it has to have elements of inspiration that I can gaze upon when I need to daydream! I know, you know what I'm talking about! You know, that moment when you look up from what you're working on and before you realize it, your mind is everywhere, and anywhere except work!

Isn't this great! The space gets great sun and it's very pretty, filled with objects that would motivate and inspire me to do my best work! I really love how gold and silver finishes were used here! The soft sprinkles of color makes it even lovelier! I've always liked the idea of layering rugs and it is done wonderfully! This work space belongs to Dallas Shaw , a very successful fashion illustrator, business woman, and author of a hugely popular blog.

This space definitely has the organization that I would need in order to work effectively and efficiently! I don't do well with clutter! It makes my mind feel cluttered! The shelving that is used is great. I can use bins, just as is featured here, to hide lesser attractive items that I need to have handy, as well as be able to display those things that are lovely and inspiring. Ooh, and did you notice the brass swing-arm sconces above the shelves? How clever is that! Truly a win-win, for me!

Have a terrific week, my Friends!

Rhonda

(1) Image

(2) Image

(3) & (4) Image

A Relaxing Sunday

2012-02-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

There are times when I want ornamentation and intricate detail, but then there are those times when I long for simplicity in shape, form, and necessity.

Hope you're having a lovely Sunday!

Rhonda

*via my Pinterest Boards

Pinterest...I Can Think Of Far Worse Addictions!

2012-02-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

I didn't get to spend a lot of time on Pinterest this week, however if you've been there before, then you know you don't have to be there for long to find incredible inspiration!

Ralph Lauren designed this specifically for me! Well, that's my story and I'm sticking with it! His Fall 2012 Collection has everything that appeals to my fashion sense!

Such a great room to relax! That rug has to feel amazing under foot! Okay, where can I find that number 2? That's alright, I'm gonna go to Hobby Lobby buy the number, go to home depot and buy the paint... voila!!! Hope it works out!

That rug is a great complement to the mocha finish on the bookcases and molding! How about the chandelier, mirror, and frame of the chairs? Incredible, right! I'm really liking the pop of cobalt blue, persimmon inside the bookcases, and green botanical on the table! It's a wonderful balance!

Burberry scores in a major way with their Fall 2012 Collection! I want the dress, the belt, the handbag, and the shoes! Just Mar-ve-lous!

I really love the details of this console! Isn't it just beautiful? A wonderful composition with the perfume bottles, hermes boxes, smart catchall bin underneath, and eye catching photo!

There are so many details about this bedroom that I adore! Let's try, hmm... everything!

Isn't this great? Oops! Just wasn't expecting that gust of wind!

Have a terrific weekend!

Rhonda

My Pinterest Boards

Paprika...A Mild Red!

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

This entry feels like a nice warm greeting with red walls! The ceiling and flooring finish is like a cheery "Glad you stopped by!"

What a great contrast of colors (white, red, and black), grounded by a rich wood floor and rug that has every color of the room!

Punches of red in the pillow, lamps, and trim on the draperies uplifts the spirit of this space.

The color is made even richer by the dark finishes in the furniture and accessories in this masculine bedroom. The white ceiling prevents it from becoming cave-like.

Red comes in a variety of shades and can be used in a variety of ways! Hopefully, I have sparked a renewed interest or confirmed what you already know!

Have a spectacular weekend!

Rhonda

*via my Pinterest boards

Elements Of Loveliness

2012-02-16T13:11:00.003-05:00

I have always liked antiqued mirrors! What a delightful surprise to walk into this powder room and be surrounded by such loveliness! The shape and frame of the window further enhances the look and feel. But wait! As you admire the capiz chandelier, your eye is immediately drawn to the antiqued mirrored ceiling!

There is nothing that I do not like about this room! Nothing! I am so in love with the door casing! The tall molding is phenomenal! I am not a fan of border! This border is so beyond anything I would have imagined! Just yesterday, in my posting

It's Glossy, I had mentioned how I did not like the glossy finish that was added to hardwood floors in a living room and dining room, however, here...it is so beautiful! Although I can't see all of the elements, the rug and sofa, desk and chair, the vertical composition of framed drawings, and the small man statue on the simple pedestal make for a magical room! Let me not forget to mention the statue in the next room, framed so perfectly by that incredible door and draperies! Oh my gosh, this room is my idea of design perfection! Does anyone know where this interior exists?

I am almost rendered speechless by this chesterfied sofa! Let's begin with the upholstery! Really? This color is stunning! Take notice of how the button tufting makes the color appear silver, but then it darkens to a charcoal gray making the tufts appear even loftier! The seat cushions are filled with air! Obviously, whoever this sofa belongs to is a compulsive "fluffer" like me! Details, details! The stitching along the arms and at the base, along with more button detail; not to mention the charcoal finished feet! Really? Seriously! Have you seen a more extraordinary chesterfield before!

Have a lovely day!

Rhonda

*via my Pinterest boards