Livable Machine Interior Design Blog

Week 1 Menu

2013-01-03T13:17:00.000-08:00

After binging on all kinds of sweets over Christmas, so much so that my midwife said my newfound Restless Legs are a result, I am committing to feeding this baby healthier food. Oh yah, and I'll need to be fit and nourished for that whole natural birth thing coming up in 61 days (WHAT IN THE WORLD!?!?!?).

So here's my menu for the week (Clockwise from Top Left):
- learn to make a REAL bone broth (not the same as the boxed stuff). This stuff not only is full of minerals (duh, from bones), but it's supposed to cure all sorts of ailments and be amazing for fertility/pregnancy/babies. I plan on drinking a cup a day.
-Paleo-friendly Shepherd's Pie w/cauliflower mash on top! A friend who is a midwife made this with beef, kale, corn, carrots, and onions.
- Sausage, butternut squash, and brussel sprout roast- need I say more? Yum!
- Kale Salad That Even Kids Will Like- or in my case, my husband will even like. I think it's delicious!
- Crustless Kale and Leek Quiche- making this minus the cheese (not Paleo) for breakfasts.
- DIY Ghee, the clarified butter, the magical Paleo-friendly fat for cooking.

Click Below for any recipes and links. :)

Week 1 Menu by sgahm on Polyvore

A Study in Putting it All Together

2012-11-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

Here's another project I've been working on.

This client has a study that needs a little TLC. They adore Restoration Hardware and knew they wanted to source any and all new pieces from there, they just needed a little help with the layout, windows, and accessories.

I drew up their plan and the room isn't very big, especially with the curved wall. I usually like to do two lounge chairs opposite a desk in a home office, but it was too crowded with the curved wall! So we went with one large statement chair- the Copenhagen.

I didn't like how he was working off the built-ins, so I suggested we get a small desk (the one pictured is from Resto) to go in front, with a desk chair in between. Because the small room can feel crowded fast, I went with an open legged desk that would not get too visually heavy. We will accessorize the shelves with books and objets to give that main wall visual impact.

I loved the black painted cabinet they already were using for storage (and surprise! it's also a secretary-style desk for her crafts and projects) and I loved having it along that secondary wall for interest. They just need help placing wall art around it and accessorizing the top (easy peasy). Putting that large Copenhagen chair in the corner gives a little reading nook and the height of the chair is good for that wall too.

The uncovered windows are on the front of the house (not very private!), so I suggested some grass shades flanked by stationary creamy linen panels, which will also soften up the dark masculine walls. I love the wall color they chose- it makes the space feel dark and intimate and manly.

These people have great taste, but just needed me to help them put the pieces together.

I'll post pics when everything is complete!

xoxo,

In Progress

2012-11-15T04:00:00.000-08:00

I've been working on this really great project for the last two months and figured I should probably share it here on the ol' blog. Here's the moodboard with the design ideas I presented. The client owns a restaurant and needs some functionality and design added to the party room.

There's this beautiful giant window that takes up most of one of the long walls, but it's West facing, which means late afternoons and evenings are blinding in here! They wanted some window coverings, so I proposed some French-y Conrad Shades, like these:

Conrad Shades Portfolio

Here's the selection of shade options that will need to work with the existing dining chairs.

They have this custom wine storage cabinet that is 14' long and had nothing interesting above it. I found this large (7'x3') antique industrial mirror from an antique dealer here in town to hang above. The client asked for an asymmetrical application to reflect as much natural light from the windows as possible. Still hunting for the perfect piece to balance it. I want a large aged looking planter with an interesting topiary inside.

Not this, but you get the idea.

Then my very favorite piece: the stacked bar system I designed to go in this boring little niche. They weren't using the space for anything, so I thought it would be the perfect spot for a bar. I'll put pretty glass carafes, wine glasses, trays with little vases, etc there and during parties, they can put all the dedicated wines and beverages and ice buckets along the marble counter top. I think it turned out amazing!

So that's the work in progress. I'll be sure to post more photos the further along we get.

xoxo,

No Drown-a-versary, #8

2012-11-14T09:47:00.000-08:00

So today is a heavier post.

Today is my No Drown-a-versary (as my mother calls it)- the day I can't help but remember and re-post the story of God saving my life. Today, I am grateful to be alive, grateful for God's powerful hand in my life that I will never forget, grateful for His beautiful grace and goodness towards me. In 2004, as a 19 year old college student, I was in a place in my life where I felt angry at God and distant from Him. But as He promises, all I had to do was cry out for Him to save me, and He did- no strings attached. He swooped in with love.
I wrote this the day after if happened because: "His word is like a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot" (Jeremiah 20:9).

"The Night I Almost Died"

I was driving home from work at Gristmill (restaurant) around 9:20pm in the mist on slick roads when suddenly, without warning, my car slammed into 4 or 5 feet of water at a low water crossing. It was pitch black and I didn't know where or how high the water was. I didn't know what to do. I called Mom's cell phone and Dad picked up. I was going to tell him that I got stuck in some water and could he come and get me. Then the car started moving and I panicked! I hesitated before rolling down the power windows, which by the grace of God, worked! I climbed out and was sitting on the window ledge, frantically and incoherently screaming at my Dad to come and get me and that I was in some water on 1863. The signal faded because of the sudden surge of current that swept me away from the car. The last I saw of the little green Camry was the rear end sticking vertically out of the water- it had taken a nose-dive and was filling up with water.

The current swept me away into pure blackness. I remember panicking and thinking, "is this it, God? Is this how I'm going to die?" The current was so swift and sucked me under the water. I kicked and paddled trying to stay afloat and keep my head above the masses of debris that were piling up. Once or twice I got sucked underwater and debris piled up over my head. I was scared it I wouldn't be able to come back up for air, that too much debris would accumulate over my head. I fought and kicked and paddled to stay on the water's surface. I was freezing and could barely feel my limbs. I tried grabbing some of the cliff's edge as the water rushed me past it, but there was nothing to grab. I screamed, "Jesus save me!" I had read about stories in which some one drowns because they kick and tire themselves out. So I floated on my back like they tell you to in swim lessons and life guard training. I'm not sure how long I floated.

Miraculously, a medium sized tree branch floated by and I grabbed onto it. It proved to be a stable flotation device. I just hung onto it and began yelling, "Help! I'm in the water! My car got swept away." My voice echoed on the cliffs and some houses on the hilltops began turning their lights on. I kept yelling. My own voice scared me as it echoed in that canyon-like space- it sounded scared and pitiful. The water slowed down around a bend in the creek and I kicked my legs, still clinging to the log until I got across to the left side of the bank where it was soft and muddy and full of bushes.

I climbed up the side of the bank and looked for any kind of light. "Jesus, save me." My cell phone was still in my hand. Of course, it didn't work. There was some sort of light in the distance. I yelled and yelled. I saw only headlights in the water from a car. I started running through the brush hoping I would find a house and someone could help me. I continued yelling and running. I hoped I wouldn't hyperventilate- I was so scared. "God, don't forget about me. Help me!" I ran through this dark bushy area, bumping into trees and getting caught in brush- it was so dark out there. I finally saw a barbed wire fence. I hoped it lead to someone's property, so I climbed over the fence, and found the painted stripe of the road! I had never been so happy to see 1863! There were blinking lights! I went further a little ways down the road to exactly the low water crossing that had swept me away. On the other side were 2 ambulences and about 3 police cars along with some trucks of neighbors. I screamed and waved my arms and ran towards them. "I'm over here! My name is Stephanie! My car got swept away! Come and get me!" Their flood lights hit me along with a surge of relief. "God, thank you for saving me! Thank you!"

EMS didn't do anything. They just stood there. I don't think they could hear me over the roar of the rushing water. I kept yelling, "Can you send someone from New Braunfels?" I thought, surely they were radioing New Braunfels and in 15-20 minutes an ambulance would come from behind me and rescue me. I was freezing. I felt every breeze. I realized that my standing still on the roadside would only make me colder. I just wanted to sit. What about hypothermia? I sure could be in danger of it! So I jumped up and down to keep warm. I jumped up and down and prayed.

I prayed that God would fill me with His Holy Spirit, that He'd give me strength and warmth and endurance. I mostly prayed for warmth. I prayed that He wouldn't let me pass out, that I'd stay conscious, that I wouldn't get hypothermia. I prayed for supernatural warmth. I reminded God of His Word, "God, you've engraved me on the palm of Your Hand. You promised not to forget me! You also said you know the plans you have for me, plans to prosper me, not to harm me. Plans to give me a hope and a future. Thank you God that you have a plan for me! Oh Lord, you aren't finished with me yet! Thank you for saving me! Thank you for saving me! Thank you that you created me in my mother's womb and knowing me completely even then. Thank you that you aren't done with me. There is still a chance for you to grow me to be that Proverbs 31 woman!" I prayed for my parents that they would have peace and God would help them to not be worried.

I thought I saw a light in the distance behind me on the road, so I started yelling for help, that I was on the side of the road. I heard some man's voice, but couldn't make out what he was saying. I thought that someone on the New Braunfel's side just couldn't find me.

The flood lights across from me began to turn off. "NO!!! Don't leave me!" Then a voice on a bullhorn said, "Ma'am, we're not going to leave you. Help is on the way." I continued jumping to stay warm and began to pray for someone to come from New Braunfels. What I didn't know was that I was caught between 2 low water crossings. I was stuck in the middle. I didn't know at the time that my Dad and EMS were at the New Braunfels side of the water crossing looking for me, not seeing the car and thinking I was dead. "Jump up and down if you're name is Stephanie," the bullhorn said. So I jumped higher and waved my arms frantically screaming "Yes!" I wondered if mom and dad were among the people with EMS standing near the flood lights. At one point I called out, "Mom! Dad!" But no one could hear me over the rushing water. I continued praying for the Power of the Holy Spirit and for someone to come from the other way.

Eventually, headlights came towards me from behind. I turned and waved to get their attention. They slowed down and told me to get in. They asked if my name was Stephanie. I said yes and that I live in Rim Rock Ranch and was driving home from work in New Braunfels. They began radioing someone saying they'd found me. They said I'd be staying with them tonight.

They took me to their house at a shooting range. Mr. Ferris and his son took me inside, where Mrs. Ferris handed me towels and sweats to change into and the phone to call my parents. I called my mom to tell her I was okay. She told me to call my dad. When I called him, he was still at the water crossing on New Braunfel's side and he cried. Mrs. Ferris had already called them to tell them that they'd found me, but they wanted to hear my voice. When I went into the bathroom to dry off and change, I saw that I had cattails and thistles tangled up in my hair. My formerly white shirts were khaki-ish brown and one sleeve was torn. Debris was all in my hair and all over me. I left a trail of it where ever I walked. I couldn't believe I was safe. The previous hour and a half seemed completely surreal and UNreal. I wanted to cry and tell God how thankful I was, but no tears would come. I just thanked God over and over in the simplest words.

I stayed at the Ferris's overnight. They were incredibly nice to me and took care of me. They lived in the only house on the hill stuck between those two low water crossings. They had taken care of a couple people in floods before. I told them how God had saved me. The next morning, when the water went down, my Dad came to get me. We went home. I was so glad to be home.

I am so blessed to be alive today. God had His Hand on my life. He saved me. He's the only reason I am alive. He's not done with me yet. If I had died that night, I would have felt that my life had had barely any value to the Kingdom of God. But I have another chance, more life for God to use. I really believe He has a plan for me and that it wasn't fulfilled yet, so He brought me through this whole ordeal in one piece to accomplish what He planned for my life before I was even born. He still has something for me to do in life. I'm so thankful that He's allowing me to fulfill that purpose, whatever it is.

I have prayed that this story would be written in an unexaggerated way, that God would use this story (even in written form) for His glory. The clearest point that I need to make, if not clear enough yet, is: God saved my life! I did none of this in my own strength. I could not have done it! I am a girly city girl. I could not have survived this on my own! And God protected me from being harmed, from breaking bones, concussions, and all of that! And I am so incredibly grateful for everyone who prayed for me. God saved my life! I hope this testimony of God's unmovable will, amazing power, loving protection, and undeserved grace towards me blesses others and gives testimony to how I am now changed because of it.

Psalm116:1-9
I love the Lord because He hears and answers my prayers. He bends down and listens. I will pray as long as I have breath! Death had its hands around my throat; the terrors of the grave overtook me. I saw only trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: "Please, Lord, save me!" How kind the Lord is! How good He is! So merciful, this God of ours! The Lord protects those of childlike faith; I was facing death, and then He saved me. Now I can rest again, for the Lord has been so good to me. He has saved me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. And so I walk in the Lord's presence as I live here on earth!

(Two months later, after the waters went down, we got a call from a guy saying he found my car on his property. We went out to the bottom of his almost dry creekbed and found this. My keys with my college ID keychain were still in the ignition.)

xoxo,

iPhoto Dump

2012-11-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am up to my elbows in project ideas for Baby Gahm. Really, I might be getting out of control. Here are some ideas dumped via my iPhone. HowAmIGoingToDoItAll????

Color swatches for the triangle quilt I want to make with my mama.

Here is the quilt pattern I found online. SO Cute. Going to tweak the colors to the above swatch colors.

Freaking adorable baby booties. Love the two-toned ones! I'm always looking for something to keep my hands busy in the evenings while watching TV.

I scored this heinous glider on Craigslist for $30- yep $30, ottoman included. Take it to my mom's over Thanksgiving to give it a new white coat of paint and freshly reuphosltered cushions. I'm thinking a charcoal grey would be perfect.

Dragged my sweet man to Kuhl Linscomb's kiddie section last weekend and he immediately LOVED this board book and asked to put it on the registry. My sweet non-conformist artist man.

Giraffes- so so cute.

- SG, Posted from my iPhone

Little Girls

2012-11-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Source: pinksugarland.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: thebabyblackbird.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: darthurazoe.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: crushculdesac.tumblr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: kenziepoo.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: jenloveskev.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: zara.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: chakradesignstudio.bigcartel.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: freshlypickedblog.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: cdn.next.co.uk via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: caramel-shop.co.uk via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: pollygonfolk.tumblr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: ohjoy.blogs.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Just indulging in a little daydreaming about Little Girl Gahm. We got to see her in an impromptu ultrasound this week (she's fine and I'm fine). Having lots of fun thinking about how to dress her, what she'll look like and what her little personality will be like. Only 4 more months!

xoxo,

2012-11-10T16:27:00.003-08:00

Source: 25.media.tumblr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Ain't it the truth?

xoxo,

Gilded Tribal Love

2012-11-09T12:10:00.000-08:00

I think I found these images in Lonny or Rue of Jane from Sea of Shoes' hometour. I'm so jealous. The gilded opulence is a bit over the top, but dang, those Platner chairs, tribal flat woven rug, and fur are yummy.

xoxo,

Modern Farmhouse

2012-11-07T11:57:00.003-08:00

Just wanted to share these beautiful images that have been circulating the blogosphere (thanks for Black Eiffel and Simple Lovely for sharing them too!). The Canadian House and Home 2012 Showhouse is stunning! The design of this modern farmhouse just goes to show that a clean aesthetic doesn't have to be stark to feel modern and urban.

Gorgeous exterior! I love the natural elements of stone and the lovely green landscaping with the metal roof and window frames.

Design credit goes to LR Design Study for the interior design and Murakami Design for the archectectual design. The PCM Project and Construction Management Group did a killer job executing the design too.

The family room has a palette of rich neutrals full of textures and variety of materials. I especially love the kilim rug and poufs (from West Elm).

Sofa is from Ralph Lauren, coffee table from Michel Zelnik and drapery fabric from Kravet.

Great grey-washed entry table with a few sparse glazed urns and a large sepia toned photograph. Love the equestrian touch!

That door.... it gets me.

From Bliss Nor-Am Doors & Windows.

One of my very favorite rooms in the space! That chandelier is amazing (Currey and Co).

Table, slipcovered end chairs, Boo Boo & Lefty; side chairs,woven urns, ferns, wall cabinet, Cocoon Furnishings; artwork by Elsha Leventis, In2art Gallery; demilune chest, Absolutely Inc.; mirror, Elte.

The clean white marble with sooty black lower cabinets and no uppers is such a modern feel.

Love the faux Bertoia Chairs and Sarenin table.

Table, Elte; chairs, UpCountry.

The family room off from the kitchen is small, but soft and inviting.

Coffee table, West Elm; floor lamps, Pottery Barn; side chairs, TV easel, Elizabeth Interiors; side chairs' fabric, Designer Fabrics; sofa, Stacaro.

Again, I'm totally enamored with these doors. The exterior glass door system is also incredible- so much natural light!

They are from NanaWall Systems; console, Crate & Barrel; artwork by Karen Whylie, Art Interiors.

Vibrant royal and clemintine colored study is so bright, but still works with the natural architectural elements.

Sofa are from Crate and Barrel, armchairs from Coccoon Furnishings; coffee table, Hollace Cluny; throw pillow fabrics, Lee Jofa showroom; artwork by Annette Kraft van Ermel, In2art Gallery; metal doors, Bliss Nor-Am Doors & Windows.

Beautiful bedroom with seagrass rug, clean headboard (Elizabeth Interiors), industrial chandelier, and ghost chair paired with a farm house style desk.

Bedding quilts, throws, stump stools, chair, West Elm; floor lamps, clock, trunks, accent pillows, wire baskets, Pottery Barn; throw pillow, HomeSense; area rug, Elte;

Kid room is colorful and bright and still in line with the rest of the house.

I could totally live in this house. Could you? Too sparse? Not enough color? Too much?

xoxo,

Pretties

2012-11-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post some pretties today. I've been working on a bright white kitchen for a client that is going to be dreamy, but just needed a place to dump some pretty design ideas of a different feel and style.

Swooning over this dark kitchen! The designer, Tamara Kaye-Honey knocked out the dividing wall between living room and kitchen and make a room divider/bookcase/breakfast bar. Such a great idea for small spaces! I think I love the color combination most of all- that dark grey with the medium walnut wood and touches of brass. It's midcentury, but also modern and classic.

Modern dining room. Love everything: the chandelier, the chrome trim on the chairs, warm wood floors, grey leather, and the powder lilac paint color.

I'm always a sucker for anything zebra print (I wonder when I will get tired of it?)- such a graphic pop. But that built-in bar cabinet is so glam! Love the vintage-inspired wallpaper inside, and the brass on mirror accents outside!

I love how all the available surfaces are treated: orange lacquered ceiling, herringbone painted floor, and seagrass papered walls! Those funky chairs are a great silhouette too!

That graphic painting- makes the neutral room, don't you think?

xoxo,

Ideas for Baby Gahm

2012-10-11T20:59:00.003-07:00

Made this moodboard for my ideas for Baby Gahm's nursery. Colors will change a bit once I know the gender. For instance, the Campaign Chest Ikea hack would be cobalt blue if baby is a boy and will stay raspberry if it's a girl.

Obsessed with this triangle quilt and am determined to make my own, again colors may change. I think it works with the geometric mobile too.

I want the walls a nice grey.

My mother in law bought me that poster for the artwork- it's the alphabet according to MCM designs.

I'm obsessed with giraffes for this baby- could be cute boy or girl. I've already purchased a Sophie, cuz I couldn't help myself. Too adorable.

I also want to add some Scamp and Wanderlusters artwork too... maybe we'll use some of our personal photos from 2009.

xoxo,

Nate Berkus... is coming to Target!

2012-09-20T10:14:00.003-07:00

I realize I am slow to get in the loop on this, but I just found out that Nate Berkus is doing a line of home accessories at Target this fall. I'm giddy.

Remember that time I was in NYC at the Trad Home Magazine Launch Party and I saw Nate Berkus from afar and totally geeked out, didn't ask for a picture or a handshake, but just watched him like a hawk from the other side of the room? Yah. I love him.

Here are some images of his beautiful design work:

all photos from www.NateBerkusdesign.com http://nateberkusdesign.com/#/interiors

Well.... Target is launching a line of home accessories by Nate on October 21st! I am giddy! Take a peek at these:

images from CopyCatChic

Love them all! What's your favorite? I think the jute rug and the gold pillow are mine. My friend Lauren and I are contemplating camping out for some of this cool stuff when they launch the line! Yes, we're a little crazy.

xoxo,

Beh-behs on the Brain

2012-09-17T19:46:00.005-07:00

For all you unfortunate souls following me on Pinterest, you know I've been posting approximately 9875235485 pictures of baby stuff. Sorry. I can't help it. I know I have 5 1/2 more months to go cooking this bun in the oven, but I'm just so excited, I can't stop. Can't. Stop. Pinning.

I think my thoughts are beginning to resemble pins now. Just this morning as I was waking up, I said, "Oh my gosh, I know how we should decorate the baby's nursery." My man smiled and said "shhh." I wait .5 seconds before blurting out "BABY WANDERLUSTER!" He smiled and went back to sleep.

I was thinking about how everything I'm obsessing over for my registry is travel related, so it would be cute to do a camper-themed nursery.

THEN I remembered pinning this several months ago:

Little Scamper via Lay Baby Lay

See? I'm so obsessed with Pinterest, I can't even remember that I pinned this. That's sad, my friends. Anyway, I've been loving the idea of a midcentury vibed nursery, with a crib and our cool vintage dresser that will become the changing table. But those are the only pieces I have in mind.

I know I want to do a neutral base, grey walls, with navy accents, medium walnut wood finishes, and some silver and brass accents, with a stripe/chevron/some graphic.... once I know the gender, I will throw in either fuschia and acid green or tangerine and acid green.... I think....

And THEN I saw this:

Little Indians, via Size Too Small

So. Darn. Cute. I think I have to have a teepee. I mean... have to. I like that this look could go more tribal and neutral if I wanted to leave out the bright colors.... good option.

So that's the general direction I'm thinking with Baby Gahm's abode. Thanks for listening to my excited rambling. :)

xoxo,

Shoppin'

2012-09-13T19:58:00.001-07:00

Went antique shopping for a client the other day and found such a treasure trove of goodies. Had to share these iPhone snaps with you!

Love the mirrored Nesting tables!

Acrylic coffee table

I want this zinc top farmhouse table- for me.

Sally Wheat vignette- cool marble pieces.

Darling vintage liquor set!

Acrylic pedestal bases for a glass top table! Love this idea!

Beautiful console

Then I stopped at Kuhl Linscomb and saw this mini bertoia chair.... And almost died at the cuteness. I mean really? I think Baby Gahm needs this.

- SG, Posted from my iPhone

DwellStudio Fabrics

2012-09-10T10:10:00.001-07:00

I'm kind of obsessed with DwellStudio. Yes, I am. I adore the bedding. And the midcentury furniture and accessories are fabulous too.

order their catalog for more eye candy, like this

And I think my wildest dreams are coming true: DwellStudio is launching a fabric line through Robert Allen. YES!

Here are a few pics from Lonny and Great Bones Good Pieces. Seriously, I love.

love the green marbled fabric!

That green fabric would look amazing upholstering an French-style Bergere, like this:

And that floral wants to be some fun draperies! Or a tight-upholstered ottoman

fabrics on display along with some of their furniture pieces

some of the inspiration behind the fabric collection

DwellStudio's founder and Creative Director, Christiane Lemieux

These will be available next month through Robert Allen! I'll be running to the Design Center as soon as they are! Cannot wait!

See any you like?

xoxo,

Lonny is my dream mag

2012-09-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

You guys, I love Lonny Mag. Really. Everytime I ~~remember to~~ browse through it, my creativity is inspired!

Here are some of my favorite images from the latest issue (eye candy):

I love you, LA

Mmm, love a moody bookcase (from Dwell Studios)

adorable kitchen, with Wisteria barstools, and cute open shelves and knick-knacks

Wish this was my breakfast nook. How cozy!

loving the farmhouse style table, zebra cafe curtains, industrial chandelier, and pop of red!

drool, amazing application of Black Crow Studios Wallpaper!

Fun living room- but I really love that swirly marbled green malachite-y wallpaper in the entry!

such an unexpectedly soft and retro bedroom

I always adore inky walls

Oh Lonny, you never disappoint.

See any trends you like? Any trends you hate?

I'm all ears. :)

xoxo,

Watery dreams

2012-09-05T12:16:00.003-07:00

I am crazy for Black Crow Studios Watercolor wallpaper. Look how amazing and colorful these wallpapers make the space! It's like living in an ethereal watercolor!

Love the girly mauve and the pop of kelly green!

This is my favorite image! I think you could get away with bold colors like this in an entry.

It would also be fabulous in a dining room

As always, feel free to contact me if you are interested in anything posted here. I'd love to talk someone into using this wallpaper. ;)

All images are from Black Crow Studios.

xoxo,

Guess what?

2012-08-31T18:13:00.003-07:00

We are expecting a baby!!!!

In March!

And we're SO excited!!!!

Stay tuned. :)

xoxo,

What in the world

2012-08-08T13:00:00.001-07:00

Y'all.... Justin Timberlake thinks he's a designer now. It's true.

Ok, not literally. But he did pair with celebrity stylist Estee Stanly to launch a home store called Homemint.

Part of me is jealous, like Justin, seriously, why do you have to be so good at everything?! Why can't you leave some stones unturned for the rest of us? Kidding. But seriously, this guy is a mogul. I'm only jealous because it's brilliant.

xoxo,

It's the Little Things

2012-07-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

I've posted before how your home, and the state of your home, matters. It's a reflection of YOU! I saw this great post on Apartment Therapy and had to share. Hope you enjoy! I can definitely vouch for the importance of making the bed. :)

"Our homes are an extension of who we are: what we do within the walls of our abodes shapes our mood, affects our productivity, and influences our outlook on life. Scientific studies have shown that we can have an impact on our happiness by adjusting the tiny little habits and routines that constitute our daily lives — we are, in fact, in control of our outlook on life.

It's amazing how a few tweaks to our daily habits can become a catalyst for meaningful, positive change. Here are a few simple things you can do every day to feel happier at home.

1. Make your bed. In a popular post last month, I explained the many benefits of daily bed-making. Gretchen Rubin, New York Times best-selling author of The Happiness Project, explains that this three minute task is one of the simplest habits you can adopt to positively impact your happiness.

2. Bring every room back to "ready." I learned this trick from Marilyn Paul's clever book, It's Hard to Make a Difference When You Can't Find Your Keys. It's a known fact: Clutter causes stress; order creates a haven from it. This mood-boosting routine is simple: Take about three minutes to bring each room back to "ready" before you depart it. (Unless you have a toddler, or a partner who likes to simulate earthquakes, three minutes should be sufficient.)

3. Display sentimental items around your home. One reason that experiences (and memories of those experiences) make us happier than material things is due to the entire cycle of enjoyment that experiences provide: planning the experience, looking forward to the experience, enjoying the experience, and then remembering the experience. Make your home a gallery of positive memories.

4. Start a one-line-a-day gratitude journal. Before bed, simply jot down one happy memory from that day. (If you have kids, you can ask them, "What was the best part of today?") Reflection is an important part of happiness, and pausing to reflect on a positive event from each day cultivates gratitude. (An added bonus: Later, when your memory is defunct, you will already have all of your meaningful adventures recorded!) If you have trouble getting started with journaling, consider buying a book to guide you. Simple Abundance, by Sarah Ban Breathnach, is a great one.

5. If you can't get out of it, get into it. This tip comes from The Happiness Project. I love the message: The dishes are not going to clean themselves, so you will do it, and you will like it! (Unless, of course, you can outsource this job, in which case I say: Nice work!) Otherwise, get into doing the dishes. Feel the soothing warm water on your hands. Enjoy the tickle of the tiny bubbles. Crank your favorite album at an unusually loud volume, do a couple fist-pumps while shouting "Can I get a hell yeah for the dishes? Hell! Yeah!" and pretend you love it.

6. Before you get up each morning, set an intent for the day. In The Art of Happiness, the Dali Lama says ""Every day, think as you wake up: today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it." Wow. What a wise man. I tend to wake up with a strong visceral reaction that says, "Attention human beings: Be afraid of me before coffee. Be very afraid!" Setting a daily intent makes a huge difference. Your daily intent could be something like "be productive" or "enjoy today's delicious moments" or it could be something more specific like "say thank you to my loved ones today." But it should not be another "to do" item on your list.

7. Do small favors for your housemates, expecting nothing in return (not even a thank you!). (That's right, I said it: nothing!) Mow the lawn for your husband, but don't expect him to pat you on the back. Make the bed for your wife, but don't try to get bonus points for it. Take the trash out for your roommate, just because. The ability to cultivate strong, healthy relationships is one of the biggest contributors to health and happiness, but when you start to keep score, the benefit is lost. (No! It's YOUR turn to clean up the dog poop!) It's a well-known fact: When you do good, you feel good.

8. Call at least one friend or family member a day. You can do this while you clean, while you make the bed, or while you walk the dog. Texts and emails do not count! Make an actual phone call to a loved one, just to chat and catch up. We humans are social beings and studies show that even when we don't feel like it, even if we are naturally introverted, socializing with our loved ones makes us feel better.

9. Spend money on things that cultivate experiences at home. Save money for a new grill for parties or a new DVD for family movie night — something that will encourage you to have people over and entertain. Plan a summer barbeque, invite your closest friends, kick back and relax. (And don't forget to print out the pictures to remember the good times.)

10. Spend a few minutes each day connecting with something greater than yourself. Whatever your spiritual beliefs — or non-beliefs — may be, studies show that connecting to a high power is correlated with happiness. Just stepping back to realize that we are part of an enormous universe can put some perspective on your annoyance with the those-are-definitely-not-mine-and-they-are-abso-fricking-lutely-repulsive socks under the coffee table. Before bed, spend just a few minutes contemplating something larger than yourself. Take a walk in nature. Write in a journal. Create a sacred space in your home. (Or if spirituality is really not your thing, create a home spa: light some candles, soak in a hot bath, delve into a good book… are you feeling better yet?)."

source.

xoxo,

Wallpaper

2012-07-16T10:19:00.001-07:00

You guys... Dwell Studio is now offering wallpaper!!! I am excited.

Y'all know how I feel about Dwell Studio....

- SG, Posted from my iPhone

Thrift love

2012-06-23T12:26:00.000-07:00

Spotted these gems at a local thrift spot last week. I wanted to take all of them home!

(sorry for the photo quality- iphone blogging, y'all)

Camel leather sofa w/Danish style arms- $900

These need a reupholstery make-over! Like these similarly styled chairs upholstered in my fave Lee Jofa David Hicks La Fiorentina!

image from Furbish

Really cool tribal woven rug- $75. Kinda small at 3.5x5, but I love the look of layering over a big seagrass rug!

Texture close up

Big cowhide, perfect for an area rug- $190.

Amazing green urn, $45

Don't think it's a real Saarinen (I checked the bottom), but cool green wool desk chair!

I only I had the space, all of these delicious finds would be mine!

- SG, Posted from my iPhone

Earthy Hues and Neutral Spaces

2012-06-14T15:28:00.002-07:00

So very excited to post this blog post on Earthy Hues from my very first guest blogger, Joanna from Arcadian Lighting! Enjoy her post!

Hello, I’m Joanna. I write for Arcadian Lighting, a go-to source on the web for lighting fixtures for every home. I am crazy for my work. I get to spend my days searching online for the loveliest interior design images and ideas then share them on blogs such as Livable Machine Interiors. My own style is an eclectic mix of furnishings and colors. I can’t choose just one! Today, I bring you some of the most gorgeous earthen-hued spaces. Because they come from nature earthy hues can instill a sense of serenity and peace within us.

This serene nature-hued living room offers an inviting space to enjoy a conversation with a close friend or curl up with a good book.

This unusual and charming room is filled with earthy colors of browns, beiges and turquoise. The large windows bring nature inside adding an extra earthy element. The globe pendant light must shed a wonderful glow after dark.

An earthy palette is reminiscent of a crisp winter’s day with its grays and whites.

A window seat and low profile sofa get their own brush of earthy tones making the space warm and inviting.

Mossy green and weathered gray give this kitchen a touch of nature. I would love to have a window like the one pictured here in my own kitchen.

An aged décor is earthy yet elegant. Warm woods and creamy whites create a welcoming space.

A modern space is made inviting with its soft natural colors of warm wood, sage green and camel.

This white bathroom gets its natural touches from warm woods and greens. The ornate light fixture is sure to cast a lovely glow when lit. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

If you were inspired to add some eathy hues to your home, be sure to stop by Arcadian Lighting to find the perfect light fixture to compliment and accentuate those tones as well!

That kitchen with the grey brick and gorgeous light fixture is my fave! I also love that modern space with the Womb Chairs and the Barcelona bench- modern can be warm!

Thanks again, Joanna!

Now hop on over to Arcadian Lighting and check out some of their cool pieces, like this one, this one, and this one!

xoxo,

Peach and Aubergine

2012-06-10T13:23:00.001-07:00

These colors totally inspired me....

peach & aubergine

LARS HORN TABLE | tables | furniture | Jayson Home & Garden
$475 - jaysonhomeandgarden.com

Pier 1 Imports - Honeycomb Mirror
$250 - pier1.com

Natural Linen Coverall Arm Chair | Chairs
$100 - wisteria.com

BIRD PAPERWEIGHT | tabletop | accessories | Jayson Home & Garden
$55 - jaysonhomeandgarden.com

AGATE BOOKEND | tabletop | accessories | Jayson Home & Garden
$52 - jaysonhomeandgarden.com

Sweet Sleep

2012-06-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

So I'm on the hunt for a bed and some new fabulous bedding. But I am a little bit all over the place with style ideas. Here are a few pretties I've been staring at lately.

I would have such sweet dreams in this California desert bedding.

(I think this one's my favorite right now)

source.

This feels like waking up in a garden.

source.

Peacock blue walls with a nailhead trimmed headboard are the perfect background for this grey and cream chevron bedding. Love it. I'd do a more antique-y bedside table and one big piece of art over the bed, if it were my room.

source.

This one looks feminine, dramatic, but super cuddley and comfortable.

The velvet headboards against those dark walls is so striking!


source.

This tangerine and coral color combination on white bead board walls is so fresh and the headboard and duvet are a bit preppy. I like how they added that great piece of art and those vintage brass fixtures for a little more personality.

source.

I know I've posted this room before but it's just so unique I have to post it again. I LOVE that David Hicks La Fiorentina fabric on the bedskirt and canopy! But I also love the grasscloth wallpaper, cowhide rug, and modern art. Putting a desk on one side of the bed instead of a matching nightstand is a great change too. Personally, I'm not wild about poster beds, so I'd modify with a cool wooden or simple upholstered headboard.

source.

xoxo,