The Stir By CafeMom: Blogger Gabrielle Blair

Beautiful Brother and Sister Bedroom Shows How Lovely a Shared Space Can Be

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:00:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Another room for a brother and sister -- I can't help it!

This stylish shared space for Danish siblings Rafaella and Balthasar is filled with neutral tones and so many fun personal touches. There are lots of white walls and simple furnishings with pops of color and pattern throughout.

Click through to see more below:

Here's a cute little creative spot, ready for some imaginative play. Can I just say that the gun decal caught me off-guard, though -- guns are perceived so differently from one country to another. But I especially love how the light fixture is draped.

The beds are dotted with fun pillows in a variety of patterns and designs -- perfect for curling up with a good book!

Speaking of books, these shallow shelves are such a great way to display and organize what you've got.

Here's a good shot of the diamond patterned accent wall and painted floor. The various shades of gray feel calm and soothing.

I'm enjoying the colorful accents found throughout the room. That stuffed snake is just about the cutest thing ever.

Scandinavian style may or may not be your thing, but either way, there are a lot of great design inspirations you can get from this room. Any set of siblings would be so lucky to share this space! I particularly like how so much of the furniture and accents came from IKEA and were dressed up a bit to give the room a truly special touch -- proof that good style doesn't necessarily involve a hefty budget!

See a detailed post about this room from Favourite Things by Ferm Living

So what do you think? Is this room too neutral for you, or perfect for a toddler- and preschool-aged brother and sister?

Adorable Brother and Sister Bedroom: This Is How It Should Be Done!

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:29:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Usually when we talk about shared spaces, they happen to be for siblings of the same gender. But what about when brother and sister bunk up together? This room for Aden and Isabel by designer and mom Emily Mughannam is all the proof you need that it can be done --and quite successfully too!

Click through to see more below.

I think the key here is having some sort of a neutral base for everything in this type of shared bedroom. The bolder details here play nicely off this gray-striped wall as an example. I can also appreciate that nothing in this room is overly masculine or feminine, but a little bit of everything instead.

There's plenty of color in the room, but the tones tend to be muted. Don't you love the shade of orange on this set of drawers?

How about those navy doors? Cool, right? I also like that the furniture isn't all matchy-matchy but different and complementary.

More grays in the crib bedding for Isabel keep things neutral with all the rug patterns and wall hangings.

Another peek into the layout of the room. That circle rug with the tribal print is super fun!

Brother-and-sister sharing can be difficult to navigate, but I think this bedroom pulls things together really well.

Have you ever done a room for a brother/sister combo? Do tell!

This 'Hollywood Glam' Nursery Has It All

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:12:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

This baby's room inspires a sense of old Hollywood with gilded gold accents mixed with black and white staples and a few fun surprises too. Mom Deidre put this nursery together for daughter Daphne last year, and I have to say, I definitely like how it came together.

Click through for more details below:

So many things going on in this room, but somehow they all work well together! I love the mirrored front on the dresser and the ornate mirror hanging above. Classic pieces oozing old glamour.

The Missoni for Target bedding was a huge inspiration for the colors happening in this space. I really dig how non-traditional it is in contrast to that classic armoire.

The chandelier was a tag sale find, retrofitted with new shades and a coat of gold spray paint. It might be my favorite piece in the space.

Girly details keep things feminine and and light, which in turn, help keep the bolder features in this room from feeling too overbearing.

A simple black-and-white bassinet and the striped DIY Roman shade provides some quiet neutrality to the space.

Going for glamour in a nursery space is certainly a bold move, but one I think worked out beautifully in the end!

What do you think? Perfect for baby girl or maybe meant for a more grown-up occupant instead?

6 Great Ways to Cut All the Kid Clutter!

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:04:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I think there are parts of minimalism that really appeal to me. Less stuff equals less clutter, right? But unless you're super dedicated to that sort of endeavor, the reality of living with kids sets in fast, and before you know it you're tripping on Tonka trucks and finding broken crayons on the bottom of your purse. With that in mind, I've put together a few good inspirations to help you kick the kid clutter to the curb (or storage basket) where it belongs.

The first? Use painter or washi tape to hang some of your child's best artwork rather than letting it sit out on the counter or clog up a drawer. It's a great non-permanent way to display their creativity at the cost of a few rolls of tape and zero damage to your walls.

See more ideas like this below:

I feel like the tiny objects -- crayons, beads, pencils, and other small items -- are my nemesis when it comes to clutter. That's why I really dig the idea of storing them in jars. You could up the charm factor and Superglue some spray painted animals on the lids, or just leave them be. Either way, a place for everything and everything in its place means no more random colored pencils rolling around on the table.

Add some casters to a plain bookshelf unit, drill some big holes for buckets, and you've got a catch-all for just about everything. Buckets for the little stuff and shelves for books and toys.

Old lockers make for superb storage if you're lucky enough to find some (I once asked at my favorite antique store, and they scouted some for me on their next buying trip. I'm sure you could do the same!) Plus, I love the industrial feel they have. Don't forget about filing cabinets, either -- they're good for more than holding folders!

Take advantage of that space under the bed and turn it into storage. Track down crates, bins, and baskets with a low profile. I've even seen people put casters on old drawers so they can easily roll under a bed. It's wasted space otherwise, so you might as well put it to use and get all that stuff off the floor!

Take your storage vertical by adding hanging shelves for books or other treasures. Storing books and toys this way opens up more floor space, and less stuff on the floor means less stuff to trip over. Total win!

So there you have it -- I hope that's enough ideas to get your gears turning. I want to hear if you have any other great ideas for cutting the clutter in your kids' rooms. Tell me in the comments below!

Images via Johnny Valiant, Craft Gossip via Brit.co, Home Portfolio, Welke, Apartment Therapy, Simplified Bee

A Bright and Colorful Room for a Little Toddler Girl -- Would You Dare?

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:22:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

In stark contrast to the last black-and-white toddler's room I wrote about, here's a bold and bohemian space for little Marlowe. Mom Drea runs a popular blog called Oh Dear Drea and put together an eclectic and happy spot for her sweet little girl.

Click through to see a few more photos below!

Re-using some old party decorations to hang over the bed was genius! I love the look and I'll bet Marlowe does too.

A darling little retro dollhouse serves as a small night table.

Of course the dresser was an amazing roadside find, and it looks right at home here!

Sweet little personal touches like those baby dresses are dotted throughout the room. The curtain panels were made from fabric from a local Indian store.

Tucking the play kitchen into the closet helps the room feel less cluttered and lets Marlowe make messes as big as her imagination. So fun!

I love the vintage vibe this room gives off and think everything comes together quite nicely.

Tell me, is it too kitschy for you or right up your alley?

A Little Girl's Room in Black and White: Love It or Hate It?

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 17:32:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I can't wait to hear what you guys think about this particular room! Designer Rachel from Copy Cat Chic put together this black and white room for her toddler daughter Arden. I personally love a basic color palette like this, but I know for some people, it can seem a little stark.

Click through to see more details below!

The polka dots on the wall are kind of my favorite. Believe it or not, they're simply removable file folder stickers. The bed? A garage sale score.

Isn't that dresser gorgeous? I know painted wood is a huge thing right now, but I love a natural finish, too. And this one seems to have aged in an almost ombre fashion. I can't tell if it was intentionally done or a happy accident.

I think this room manages to mix natural wood with painted finishes really well.

Chalkboards are always a win with children, and did you notice the doorknobs? So pretty!

I'm really digging this striped rug -- it's huge! And the drapes were found at Lowe's.

Hooks hung within easy reach for little arms are perfect for keeping jackets and bags in order.

I really like how most of the treasures in this room were budget finds and can be sourced from places like Amazon and Lowe's. I think we can all appreciate less dents in our wallets when it comes to decorating.

I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts. Wish there were more color in this toddler's room, or is it just right in black and white?

Adorable Baby Boy's Bedroom That Feels Like a Cozy Little Oasis (PHOTOS)

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 08:13:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

This fantastic nursery renovation caught my eye and I knew I had to share. Parents Luke and Brooke took this dark wood paneled room and transformed it into a calming space to comfortably fit their baby boy.

See more of this sweet little bedroom below!

I really love the neutral palette. The natural wood knobs on the dresser/changing table and the tiny shelves are just a few of the small details that really pull everything together.

The chair is an especially well-done IKEA hack with an added swivel bottom to turn it into a rocker -- making it a perfect place to sit and snuggle or feed the baby.

It's fun to find all the little foxes placed throughout the room, and you can never go wrong with a classic Jenny Lind crib.

This nursery is chock-full of personal touches. From the hand-sewn valances, to the bedding and custom closet nooks, it's truly a job well done! I love the small pops of color here and there and the overall rustic yet polished feel it manages to evoke.

*You can read all about the details and see many more before-and-after photos of this space on Brooke's blog, Life in Bridgetown.

Is this woodsy room just your type of thing or do you prefer to work with less of theme? Tell me, I want to know!

Peek Inside This Gorgeous, Colorful Kids' Playroom to Get Ideas for Your Own!

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I think we all dream of having a special space set aside for our kids to enjoy some quiet time for study or play, and definitely a little creativity! I came across this dreamy one from Rachel at Pencil Shavings and fell in love with the bold use of color and fun details.

Click through to see more of this fantastic room below:

Too many colors can get overwhelming if not done correctly, which is certainly not the case here. I love the mix of shapes and patterns and color, it's just so fun and oddly soothing too.

A rolling library cart? Such a great idea. Tell me how do you feel about that wall color too. A bold choice, but I think it worked out well. It's so striking.

The stripes on the wall were done with wide format washi tape. Did you know such a thing existed? Super cool and not permanent at all. Bonus!

I love maps anytime, but I especially like the stark white background on this particular one contrasted with the colorful countries, it served as a color palette for the whole room. Such fun geometric patterns and shapes on the rug and lamp too. Check out more details on this room design and get inspired!

I'm curious, do you have a special creative space set aside for your kids? Do tell!

Nursery Painted in Pastels Is Surprisingly Perfect for a Baby Boy

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Let me be the first to tell you that pastels are most definitely not reserved for girls! The wall color in this nursery done for baby Jude will testify as much. It's such an inviting space and you'll love to see how it all came together after being gutted down to the literal bare bones.

Click through for more!

The Oeuf crib was a splurge, but almost everything else in this room was sourced on a budget. I love the tall shelving unit that helps solve a space and storage problem, and the way the baskets are staggered adds a creative element to the whole thing.

The dresser was a thrift store treasure, given some paint and spruced up with new knobs. What a great find!

Hanging planters spray-painted white makes for great stuffed animal baskets!

This little book nook is fantastic -- I think the corner shelving looks really smart and I love all the small personal touches.

This fabulous trunk was made by a family member and given as a wedding gift. They turned it into a window seat by adding a simple cushion. Delightful!

Are you on board with a bold (yet calming) wall color like this? I think it works so well with the rest of the room furnishings and am especially pleased with the way it all came together. A job well done!

See more photos of this room and read more about its renovation and subsequent transformation at Simple Soul.

Would you paint a baby boy's room in pastels like this?

Bring Green Into Your Home Before Spring Even Starts!

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:14:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Terrariums are the best way to add a little green to your surroundings with a minimal amount of effort -- no green thumb required! The best part is that you can build a terrarium out of just about any kind of container as long as you have the basics on hand. That cool geometric cube terrarium above is from Etsy seller ABJ Glassworks and comes with a simple starter kit, plants included.

I've pulled together a few more fabulous terrarium inspirations and ideas for you to browse through below.

Spruce up a simple glass bowl with a splash of spray paint and add some air plants to make a planter like this one for yourself.

Pretty little pansies in a tiny little terrarium. I love it!

Do you have any cool shells hanging around from past vacations? Put them to use in a pretty terrarium just like this. Gorgeous, right?

If you're a tea drinker like me, no doubt you've got a stash of these cute tins somewhere. I keep thinking I need to find something great to use them for and here it is: a terrarium planter!

A hanging globe terrarium like this just might be my favorite -- simple and sweet!

I'm anxious to get my fingers in the dirt (hello spring, are you here yet?), and a project like this will help curb that urge a bit and leave a few pretties hanging around as well. Seems like a great solution to me!

What do you think? Would you decorate with terrariums or does it sound like too much work?

Images via Houzz, Luulla, Makezine, Wunderbar, Casa Sugar

7 Indoor Playhouses That Are Beautiful Additions to Any Child's Bedroom

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 17:18:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Winter is so taxing on kids and their imaginations. Sure, they've got plenty of time indoors to hone those skills, but it's easy to run low on places where they can exercise. I mean, the family room and their bedrooms are only exciting for so long. Unless ... unless you've got a killer built-in playhouse in their rooms. What kid wouldn't go bonkers for that?

The one pictured above is from an amazing Brooklyn apartment designed by Incorporated. Kind of ridiculously awesome, right? Click through below to see 6 more indoor playhouses below:

Proof that a built-in playhouse doesn't have to take up the whole room. How about a castle turret in a corner? Genius!

I really like the idea of doing a loft bed with a built-in play area underneath. It's unique and imaginative -- not to mention space-saving.

Well, here's the castle idea taken a few steps further into an actual fleshed-out toy castle. How cool! I believe there's a bed inside as well. Might be a bit easier to convince your littles to go to bed if they get to sleep inside a real castle.

I think this little cabin playhouse is so charming. It looks like it has a bed and plenty of storage too -- such fun!

If you have a wide open landing or room at the top of your stairs like this, a playhouse like this could definitely work! By building it into the slanted ceilings, they were able to take advantage of space that would be hard to make good use of otherwise.

A cozy corner cottage like this looks positively inviting and would likely translate into hours upon hours of imaginative fun.

I was lucky enough to have an outdoor playhouse as a kid, but most definitely not an indoor one. How about you?

Do you think you'd ever be bold enough to build something like this for the kids in your own home? I'm interested to hear!

Images via Incorporated, Apartment Therapy, Fe Fi Fo Famma, A Beautiful Life, Kid Space Stuff, Apartment Therapy, A Beautiful Life

A Nursery for a Baby Girl That's as Sweet as It Is Unusual

Sat, 16 Feb 2013 11:10:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I love the different elements of this nursery for a baby girl that I spotted over at Jen Loves Kev. There's just something so calming and peaceful about it, exactly the kind of vibe you want a nursery to give off, don't you think?

Read more about the special details that went into this space below!

The cute navy polka-dot fabric used on the crib skirt and then again on the teepee adds a fun pop of pattern to an otherwise neutral palette. How much do you love that twig and bird mobile? I think it's delightful!

I love it when rooms are purposefully filled with objects and art that have some sort of meaning or sentimentality behind them. Everything in this space is beautifully curated without looking cluttered, which can be hard to do.

Love this little kid-sized nook -- what a great way to take advantage of a deep window pocket.

I won't lie -- everything about this room makes me smile! It feels roomy and bright and is exactly the kind of space I'd want to spend some quality time in. If you agree, you can find out more about this adorable nursery.

People always have such different ideas about nursery decor. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this one!

How did you decorate your baby's room?

6 Beautiful Ways to Carve Out Creative Spaces for the Kids

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 13:11:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Whether it be used for homework or for coloring the next great masterpiece, every kid needs a spot where they can get creative! Of course the kitchen table will do in a pinch, but I've found that having a designated space available certainly helps foster a bit more focus, so why not have some fun with it?

I've put together some rather delightful inspirations (like that spiffy little nook above, a renovated closet if I'm not mistaken). Click through to see 5 more below!

Oh I love a flip-top desk and these are just about the cutest I've ever seen. Such great storage and the chairs are a bonus treat!

Here's a smart spot full of everything your littles will need. Crayons, drawing board, sharpened pencils ... it's all here!

How about a built-in desk instead? Here's a modern take on a sweet study nook. I love the washi taped artwork hanging above.

IKEA has the best supplies! Get creative with organization and make cleanup a real breeze.

Painting a wood floor a bright color adds a playful pop, and the built-in desk is an excellent choice, leaving plenty of room for creative fun!

Do you have a designated art/study space in your home? I'm interested to know how you encourage these kinds of activities with your kids.

From great ideas on organization, DIY, kid spaces, and just drooling over celebrity homes, our Pinterest page provides your daily design fix. Check it out and follow us!

Images via House To Home, Mishim, Handmade Charlotte, Kireei, Jonny Valiant, Traditional Home

5 Beautiful Bunk Bed Ideas to Make Sleeping More Fun

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:52:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Bunk beds are the best! They're functional AND fun, and can be a great solution to making the most out of a shared space. I like it even better when bunks go beyond the traditional stacked setup and step into a more creative realm. The scene above is a tad reminiscent of the world's coolest dorm room with a study space tucked next to the bottom bed. So smart though, right?

Click through to see four more creative bunk beds below:

It looks rather precarious, but I've been assured that you really can suspend a top bunk from the wall with the right kind of expertise. What do you think? I'd be a little stressed about someone rolling right out!

Not the most practical or realistic for most, but this is just the coolest! Four awesome bunks tucked away in this custom-built installation. Would your kids die or what?

Four beds side-by-side would have eaten up all the space in this room! But instead, this smart and colorful setup has left plenty of open area for important things like teepees and coloring.

A bunk on top of a crib --why didn't I think of that? I love this idea!

If you have bunk beds at home and have done something non-traditional with them, do tell! Any suggestions for setup and layout?

What do you think -- would you try these bunk bed ideas or are they a little much for you?

Images via Fawn Galli; Houzz; Incorporated NY; Philip Gorrivan; Panda's House

A Beautiful Nursery for a Big and Little Sister

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:39:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I love seeing photos of nurseries and rooms for children that feel functional and like children really live there. I see a lot of picture-perfect in the design world, and yet nothing makes me more happy than homes that feel comfortable and lived in.

This room put together by Ninainvorm feels warm and homey and exactly how a shared space for two sisters should look. See more below!

I love the eclectic mix of colors and furniture alike. It's totally unmatched and completely complementary.

Crocheted Granny squares on that afghan. I die!

More details from little sister's crib, lovely and perfectly sweet.

So many fun touches that feel personal and thoughtful, don't you think? Those hanging dresses are adorable, and the bunting in the window is delightful.

I always love seeing how families address shared spaces for siblings, and this gorgeous nursery is an eclectic and colorful inspiration indeed.

What do you think of this room?

5 Ways to Put Pretty Polka Dots All Around the House

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 17:47:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Polka dots aren't just for nurseries and kids' rooms anymore. These days you'll find them scattered throughout the house. Not quite sure how to incorporate polka dots into your home furnishings? Start easy with a few throw pillows!

Click through for a few more polka dot inspirations below ...

You can't go wrong with a polka dot shower curtain in a white bathroom like this.

Don't be afraid of patterns clashing: you can incorporate more than one pattern with ease! Look at these polka dot footstools paired with that geometric rug and paisley window cushion. Bright and beautiful!

I love a good polka dot tile pattern. Isn't this fantastic?

Still feeling nervous? A polka dot tablecloth is about a basic as it gets. Set a pretty table with style!

So what do you think -- can you get on board with the polka dot trend or is it too girly and youthful for you?

Images via Ghoofie Design; Canadian House and Home; Barbara Gilbert Interiors; Houzz; Live Creating Yourself

A Beautiful Modern Nursery That Will Warm Your Heart

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 11:17:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Goodness knows I am a sucker for modern design, but I totally get how it can seem a little ... sterile at times. When I spotted this nursery done for baby Alice, my heart skipped a beat because it seems to have a magically wonderful mix of warm and welcoming modern style with a vintage flair, things not often found existing together in the same room!

Click through below to see more of what I mean!

Swooning over that geometric mobile, and equally attracted to that natural stained dresser-turned-changing-table. Potted plants in a baby's room? Of course!

The Expedit makes an appearance -- not that I'm surprised. I love a good IKEA staple, don't you? Notice the light fixture? I like it!

Matryoshka dolls are a guilty pleasure of mine. They're just so delicate and detailed, and look right at home in this space.

Mom Kate runs an Etsy shop where she makes cute stuffed animals like that giraffe pictured above. You can see more of her delightful things at Tiny Warbler Designs.

Check out more photos and details of Alice's nursery.

I think this nursery makes the most of its modern touches and evolves them into an inviting space where you want to stay and hang out a bit. What about you?

6 Beautiful Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas With Prizes on Top

Sun, 16 Dec 2012 10:14:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I'm all about the pretty packaging and now that we're smack in the middle of prime gift wrapping season, I thought it would be an excellent idea to share some simple embellishment ideas to make your presents as fun to look at as they are to unwrap!

Fiskars has some great ideas for using felt, as you can see above. Read on for a few more great inspirations!

These twist tie pom-poms from Creature Comforts are delightfully peppermint-inspired and perfect against that brown paper wrapping.

Make this cute paper pom using cupcake liners -- awesome! Check out the tutorial on how to make this bow from Family Chic.

Have you made gingerbread ornaments before? They're so simple and fun! Why not use them as gift tags for a little something special? Here's a good gingerbread recipe from Martha Stewart.

Get some seasonal foliage and put it together into something pretty! HGTV has the right idea with these gift toppers.

Those perfect poms and mini bunting above are adorable! Get more great gift wrap ideas from Two Shades of Pink.

How do you feel about gift embellishments? Worth the effort or just too much extra work?

6 Stunning DIY Wreaths to Get You Into the Holiday Spirit

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 08:41:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Knock knock, it's Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year! Why not take some time to craft up your own holiday wreath to deck those halls? There's nothing like the smell of fresh pine to make your home into a holiday haven. Scatter in some star anise like the beautiful wreath above, and you've got something that not only smells good, but looks amazing too!

See 5 more inspirations below.

The country charm of this burlap beauty is textural and unusual. Attaching family photos adds a personal touch. Find all the details on how to make this wreath from The Inspired Room.

This yarn ball wreath is simple and delightful! The yarn makes it fit well in a more casual space, the simplicity makes it comfortable in a modern space. Nice! Take a look at how to make your own.

A bright berry wreath conveniently looks good against both light paint and darker shades. Unless you have a red door, this option would be perfect for you!

This wreath made from felted balls is so much fun! Felting your own balls is a bit of a project, but you can also find them ready-made. This feels like an instant heirloom to me. I can imagine it being hung in your home, your child's home, your grandchild's home ...

Here's another festive and easy wintry wreath. I like the multi-layer effect. Check out the details on how to make this beauty.

Lastly, would you ever guess this gorgeous gold wreath was made out of thumb tacks? It's true!

Have you ever made your own holiday wreath? Have any tips or inspirations I should know about?

5 Beautiful DIY Advent Calendars to Make Your Holiday Happy

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Advent calendars are such a fun tradition for the holidays, and they're surprisingly easy to DIY. There are so many pretty examples and tutorials to be found that I thought it would be a treat to put together a few of my favorites (like the gorgeous one above found at The Marion House Book).

Click through to see 4 more below!

Modern and simple, this advent stick calendar from Sugar Lander is so sweet!

Advent in a jar! Here's a super fun idea from Poppytalk.

I can't read a word of this blog, but you can find the link to make those cute printable paper boxes at the bottom of the post. Fill them with treats and hang from a branch. Printable here from Raumdinge!

A magnetic DIY advent calendar -- so fun! Find it at Twig and Thistle.

Do you have a fun advent calendar already? Have you spotted any other good ones that you can make yourself?

Otomi Textiles: The Hot New Home Decorating Trend That Can Brighten Any Room

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I've been a little bit obsessed lately with Otomi textiles. I can't help but love their vibrant colors and bold animal and floral prints. The Otomi people help support themselves with the proceeds from the sale of their designs, which kind of makes me love them even more.

Click through to see what I'm talking about.

This gorgeous Otomi lampshade adds such a bright pop of color and pattern to this otherwise quiet space.

Grace Bonny's DIY upholstered headboard is kind of legendary by now. I still think it's absolutely to die for thanks in large part to that bold red Otomi fabric.

Love the vibrant turquoise pattern on this lampshade.

I love the lines of this chair in contrast with that statement Otomi fabric. The muted colors are the cherry on top.

Would you ever consider a large Otomi throw like this one? I think it really makes a statement in an otherwise simply decorated room.

They had me at this color -- and the gorgeous pattern doesn't hurt either!

Are you feeling these Otomi textiles as much as I am, or are these bold colors and patterns a little much for your taste?

Images via Apartment Therapy, Aesthetic Oisou, Design Sponge, Joss & Main, Remodelista, Saffron Marigold, Apartment Therapy

A Perfectly Darling Nursery for a Beautiful Baby Girl

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Here's a sweet little nursery put together for baby Jane by her mom, Kirsten, who also happens to be a designer! I feel like it's feminine without being overly girly, which can be difficult to do.

Click through below to see a few more pics and tell me what you think!

I really like how this yellow lamp and pink chair pop against the neutral walls.

It's all in the details don't you think? What a peaceful spot for a babe to sleep!

Those framed graphic prints are delightfully simple and sweet. Perfect to hang over the crib.

I like that Kirsten wasn't afraid to mix things up with some more modern fixtures, like this brightly framed print and changing table/dresser from West Elm.

I am a big fan of rooms that will transition smoothly through different stages, and I think this nursery is hitting it right on target. You can see more pictures and details on Kirsten's blog, 6th Street Design School.

So what do you think -- girly enough for you or missing the mark just a bit?

5 Fabulously Fun and Crafty Fall Decorating Ideas

Sun, 28 Oct 2012 07:40:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Fall might just be my favorite season, in part because it's so fun to decorate for! There are tons of great DIYs and inspirations floating around -- like those darling pumpkin poms pictured above. You can find the full tutorial for those here from Domestifluff.

See 4 more great DIY fall decor ideas below:

Craft up this cornhusk wreath to hang on your front door. Learn how to do it yourself on At The Picket Fence.

This cool paper pumpkin is made by repurposing the pages of an old book. Find out how it's done here from Craftberry Bush.

I really like how they made three of these grapevine wreaths to hang in a row. Full tutorial can be found at The Sweet Survival.

Hang this DIY birdseed wreath, and you'll be glued to the windows watching the birdie buffet going on outside! Details here at The Mother Huddle.

Have any other fun DIY fall crafts I should know about? Share them!

Beautiful Nursery Lets Moms Pamper Themselves While Taking Care of Baby

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 13:22:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

Ever wondered what a true designer nursery looks like? I stumbled across this one from Lucas Studio based in L.A. and thought it would be fun to share. There are a lot of elements I love about this space. It's so impressive! Wouldn't everybody like to have a luxurious daybed in their nursery and a sitting area like the one pictured above?

See a few more photos below:

Side-by-side sunburst mirrors and a beautifully modern dresser-slash-changing table. These would look great in just about any room!

These complementary fabric picks are absolutely gorgeous and not what you would expect in a nursery at all.

How about this crib? The cutouts are so interesting and are a new take on the drop-sides of the past.

Giant pelican painting? Why not! But there are a few things here that make me pretty nervous, like those sharp-edged tables -- and is that a ceramic peacock? It's lovely, but I think small hands would make quick work of that, don't you?

So there you have it! Now you know how a professional design firm does an upscale nursery. I'm curious to hear what you think -- drool-worthy or not your cup of tea?

Would you ever get a professional interior decorator to design you a nursery like this one?

Images via Lucas Studio

6 Gorgeous Gold Accents That Will Turn Your Home Into a Palace

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 22:50:00 EDT

Post by Gabrielle Blair

I'm not sure I ever thought I'd see the triumphant return of gilded gold, but here it is, back and MUCH better. When done right I think it can add an interesting layer of depth and warmth to any room!

See 5 more gilded gold accent inspirations below:

Giant gold mirrors are kind of amazing (even bathroom ones), and I'll go ahead and take that chandelier too.

Don't be afraid of gilded gold! See how great it looks against that turquoise tile?

A gilded gold bed? Yes please! It's ornate sure, but don't forget beautiful and timeless too.

I'm really digging the arrangement of gilded gold frames and mirrors in this white stairwell. It somehow manages to look eclectic and perfectly arranged all at the same time.

After seeing these lovely spaces what do you think? Ready to incorporate some gilded gold into your life or what?

Images via French Country Living, Eclectic Revisited, Freshome, Glamamamma, This Is Glamorous