Love Design *

What makes you happy? *Elle King

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:35:32 PST

I am excited every week to do this post but even more so this week to feature model - Elle King. This Bajan beauty has worked in London, Milan and even as far as South Africa, Lithuania and Ecuador. Elle has worked for renowned designers such as Halston, Tom Scott, Monique Lhuillier and Emilio Pucci (just to name a few!) and she has just finished walking in Mercedes Benz Fashion week! I have to admit I get goosebumps every time I go to her facebook page or blog and see what new photos she has. Somehow in her busy schedule of taking over the modelling world, Elle managed to find time to compile a list of what makes her happy and I am ecstatic to share it with all of you.

Elle King

1. Kindle Touch - Easy reading on the go
2. Carmex lip balm - Im addicted!

3. Beach - No better place to relax

4. Fresh flowers - Smells good & pretty to look at!

5. My girlfriends - Good times guaranteed!

6.Traveling - so much in the world to see.

7. Bikram Yoga - Best to de-stress and keep toned

8. Thai Food - My fave : )

9. Clean sheets - Fresh sun dried linens in bed, perfect!

10. Scented candles - Keeps the apartment smelling oh so good!!

*P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow*

Kitchen Crush

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:04:12 PST

In all my busy pinning recently I continue to come across some serious crush worthy kitchens. Kitchens are one of the most important rooms in the house, not only are they a major selling feature but they are often where a lot of time is spent with friends and family socializing and entertaining. I wouldn't mind my kitchen looking like any of these beautiful kitchens below.

Via Pinterest

Image via Coco Cozy

Image via Traditional Home

P.S I'm super excited for a very special what makes you happy tomorrow. Stay Tuned! :)

This week...

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:13:26 PST

It's been a busy year so far and an even busier week but I have managed to find time to enjoy the little things. Here are some of my highlights of my week in Florida. Enjoy & Lots of Love***

Palm trees & pretty skies

Discovering new and exciting stores - Francesca's Collection

Fresh produce at the grocery

Fancy dinners

Starbucks, fresh blooms, shopping & decorating mags

Starbucks valentines cups

Happy valentines to me!

Gold Rush

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:45:47 PST

I've just come from shopping for my glam gold and black themed birthday party and I've got gold on my mind. I love the glamour that gold brings to a room or an outfit, whether its a gilded gold mirror, gold tea cups or even a stunning gold brooch it adds that something extra. Even though the theme for my party is gold and black I'm loving the combination of gold and white in these beautiful images.

Image via Citified

Image via Kara's Closet

Image via Decor8

* If you want to see more Glam Gold, follow lovedesigninc at Pinterest by clicking the P on the right side of the screen --->

Kitchen Perfection

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:45:40 PST

One of my favourite rooms in the house is the kitchen and this kitchen is arguably one of my favourite kitchens of all time. I love everything about it - the white subway tile, espresso cabinetry, those baskets and those hanging shades are AMAZING! For more kitchens, visit lovedesigninc at pinterest.

Image via Coastal Living

Crushing on Coral

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:17:45 PST

Coral has been one of my favourite fashion and interior trends for a while now. One of my first (very amateur) posts in 2010 was actually about Coral and since then I have continued to fall in love with it. Refinery 29 has some great picks you can see here.

Small Space Style

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:47:59 PST

When I get back to Barbados I move straight into a new (super duper tiny) apartment. It is in a fantastic location, safe building and has a newly remodelled kitchen which is so beautiful. The only downfall is that it is super small but the pros far out way the size and it just challenges me to get a little creative. I've been searching the internet for small space solutions and come across these very stylish small spaces. I also came across a blog dedicated to small spaces called Small Space Style which is packed full of inspiration and great ideas. Another great resource is HGTV who have numerous articles and ideas on small space living here. On my wish list for my new apartment -
1. a HUGE mirror to open up the space
2. Lots of chic baskets for storage
3. a Futon or day bed which can serve dual purpose
4. Chic lamps to provide cozy lighting

All images via Pinterest, to see more small space solutions and interior decor follow me (lovedesigninc) at Pinterest by clicking the P icon on the right of my screen --->

Room of the Day* Be mine

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:38:27 PST

I fell in love with this room when I found it on my guiltiest of guilty pleasures; pinterest. I love the simplicity of this room and the combination of the black,white and green, the amazing four poster bed and wicker bed bench. I would be okay with the fact that I don't have a valentine if this room would just be mine<3 Happy Valentines day all! I'm off to the mall now to soak up the crazy consumer culture of v-day and I will no doubt come home with a valentines gift to myself:) Lots of Love***

What makes you happy? *the ruffled lace

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:48:40 PST

I have to admit one thing that makes me happy is this feature and every time I receive a "what makes me happy" in my inbox it puts a smile on my face to see what makes you happy. Some things are unexpected and others I think to myself, "thats a good one!" I am excited to share this one of fellow Bajan blogger - Ally Lewis at the ruffled lace. Ally is an art history student at university in Canada and loves art, fashion, food and decor. Just to name a few! She describes her blog as "the digital diary of my life documenting photos, recipes and all things beautiful" and I couldn't agree more! the ruffled lace is on of my daily reads and I'm super happy to get to share what makes her happy. If you want to be featured here, please email me at lovedesigninc@yahoo.com for more information. Lots of Love***

1. first thing that makes me happy is a quilted chanel bag. it is and forever shall be the most classic bag. it literally gives me butterflies.
2. i absolutely adore gold and turquoise. together or on its own it is the type of jewelry that really floats my boat.
3. white decor always make me feel at peace. i love white couches, kitchens and beds are simply serene.
4. pink kitchen accessories are too cute not to make any girly girl giggle. this kettle, in particular, is pretty special.
5. cheese boards. when i see a cheeseboard at a cocktail party or on a dessert menu i instantly get excited. it is one of my favourite things.
6. diet coke is the beverage that has forever made me smile. so yummy.
7. every time i see a toggle coat i cannot help but stare. i love every bit of them especially the mustard yellow one that hangs in my cupboard.
8. if you read my blog you will already know that i am completely 100% in love with english bulldogs. when i am down and need a smile, i look at youtube videos of bulldog puppies and it instantly puts a smile on my face. can't get enough of them.
9. cat eye shades are always something i am looking for. they have such a great shape and always brighten up an outfit.
10. finally i love photography. i may not be much of a photographer myself but since blogging i love looking at photos. they make me quite happy.

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

Guest Post * Design Shuffle

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:00:05 PST

Hi! I'm Joanna, a writer for Design Shuffle, a destination site for all thing interior design. No matter whether you are a designer or a design enthusiast you'll find what you're looking for on DS. My days are spent searching for lovely interior design ideas and bringing them together in a post like this for a blog like Love Design. Thanks for letting me share today! Think sitting on the beach with a cool drink in your hand. What kind of space would you most want to return to after a long day with sun and water? I bet you'll love these spaces for their welcoming and refreshing tropical style.

Who wouldn't want to wake up to this fresh and cheery bedroom?
Even if it's not in the tropics you'll surely feel like it is.

This little bungalow has a lot going for it. From the crisp bed linens to the
must-have mosquito net, you know there must be a beach just a few feet away.
The lamp is quirky but I love it.

A bit more formal than the previous rooms, this stately bedroom design features million dollar views from every side. The bed looks almost
too pristine to touch, but I wouldn't have trouble jumping in it after
a hot day at the beach.

The perfect outdoor roomóI love the turquoise on the bamboo furniture.
Can't you just see yourself surrounded by friends with a tall cool drink in hand?

An eclectic vignette, this pretty pulled together collection would definitely add a tropical feel to a living room design or foyer.

Fresh, crisp, bright and cheery, this room has all of the elements that make up the perfect villa at the shore. This room inspires lots of decorating ideas.

Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Ready to bring a tropical paradise into your home? Find great inspiration at Design Shuffle where you'll find our interior design guide and connect with San Francisco interior designers and more!

Blogfest 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:15:14 PST

I was just on the Blogfest 2012 website checking out the list of attendees and saw Love Design Barbados on the list and I'm so incredibly excited. I registered about a week ago and in case you don't believe how excited I am then you will after you see that this nerd has already started planning her outfits for the event! For information on Blogfest 2012, visit their website and for highlights from last year check out one of my favourite bloggers Tobi Fairleys blog here.

Cannot believe that my blog is on the same list as some of
these incredibly talented bloggers and interior designers!

Outfit option #1

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

Pinterest Interest*

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:06:19 PST

I have been a very busy pinner this evening and have come across so many beautiful images that I had to share a few of my favourites with you! To see the rest of my pins follow lovedesigninc on pinterest by clicking the P icon on the right of my screen --->

Room of the Day*

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:56:37 PST

Parsons desk + Ghost chair + lots of storage = My perfect office space

Image via Pinterest

What makes you happy? *Skip to Malou

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:36:57 PST

I'm very excited to be featuring my friend Malou from Skip to Malou* today and what makes her happy. Malou describes herself as " a Bajan travel bug, geek, foodie, blogger and political postgrad student in love with the world." Her blog - Skip to Malou* is a little bit of everything and due to it's diverse nature and up to date and interesting content has grown in leaps and bounds since it started in late 2010. It is one of my daily reads and I am excited to see her new layout that she has been working on. Be sure to check her out at Skip to Malou*.

I'm still undecided on format for this feature so want your feedback do you prefer a collage like last weeks post or individually like this? Also, If you are interested in being featured please email me at lovedesigninc@yahoo.com! Lots of love***

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

Favourite Rooms

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:15:05 PST

What is your favourite room in the house? If it was up to you where would you spend most of your day? I have to admit that if any of my rooms were as fabulous as these I would happily turn my kitchen into my office and work from there or cuddle up in those sheets with the super chic chevron pillows and beautifully detailed headboard and spend the day blogging from bed. What about you? What is your weakness? Is it a chic bedroom, beautiful bathroom, classy living space, charming kitchen or divine dining room?

Images via Pinterest, Traditional Home & The Glitter Guide.

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

Design Seeds

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:00:01 PST

As I've mentioned time and time again Pinterest is one of my guilty pleasures and I have admitted to spending way too much time "pinning". One of my recent loves are these colour palettes from Design Seeds. If you want to see more of my pins click the P icon over on the right hand of the screen --- >

Room of the Day* It's all in the details

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:18:57 PST

I'm loving every little detail in this room and they are so many well thought out details to love. There is the obvious statement mirror over the bed which is impossible to miss but there is also the blue embroidered coral cushions, the rustic bed bench with nail head detail, the roses on the nightstand and countless other details to love. What details are you loving the most?

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

What makes you happy?

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:33:59 PST

I am super excited to start a new feature on my blog - What makes you happy? I have already had a great response from friends and fellow bloggers and I cannot wait for my first "What makes you happy?" next week BUT until then I wanted to share what makes me happy. Without sounding too cheesy or cliche I really believe in identifying what makes us happy and trying to do more of that thing.

What makes me happy :
(1) Beach side reading - I have recently gotten a kindle and it is so convenient but I must admit I do miss turning the pages of a book.
(2) Domino, The Book of Decorating - This is my design bible and the best interior design resource I know plus its packed with lots of eye candy!
(3)My babies - Skippy and Alvin
(4) Any type of Starbucks coffee but if I'm going to be fussy - Grande decaf non fat no whip white mocha :)
(5)Fresh flowers - especially tulips
(6)Cupcakes - preferably cutesy ones like these
(7) "The Help" - both the movie and the book
(8) Children smiling - there is nothing better than seeing a child smile or hearing them laugh. I fell in love with these kids in South Africa a few years ago and just looking at this photo makes me happy.
(9) Mani's and Pedi's - My fave colour is Bubble Bath by OPI
(10) "I love my life" by Demarco - such a feel good song and I can't help but sing along and smile when I hear it.

*For more about my "What makes you happy?" feature view here or if you are interested in being featured email me at lovedesigninc@yahoo.com*

Living Room Love

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:01 PST

The living room or family room tends to be one of the most used rooms in the house and serves many purposes whether it is socializing with friends and family, relaxing and reading a book or watching television. In my house it also doubles as a study, dining room and craft room at times and while it is functional it definitely isn't as fabulous as the rooms below.

Image via Rue

Image via Lonny

Image via House Beautiful

Blog Loving

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:23:16 PST

There are so many incredible blogs out there and so many I am yet to discover. I especially love when other blogs that I follow feature reading lists or do specific posts (such as this one) highlighting their personal favourite blogs. Below are some of my new favourite blogs as well as a few tried and true favourites and now that the blogging phenomenon has reached Barbados a few from there also! To find out about more Bajan Bloggers see this post by my friend Malou over at Skip to Malou*

Print by MadebyGirl

Amber Interior Design

Arianna Belle

Casa Bella

Coco Pearl

Table Tonic

Old favourites

The Lennoxx

Barbados Blogs

Loop Barbados

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

What do you want to see more of?

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:27:01 PST

In an attempt to make my blog better for all of my incredible followers, I want to know what YOU want to see more of? Interior design will continue to be my main focus as it is my first love but I am trying to diversify a bit and want to know what you want. Is it fashion, food, travel or something else? Let me know! Lots of Love***

P.S If you're reading this and don't already follow Love Design* with google friend connect, please show this geek some online love and follow.

Fact of the day*

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:28:47 PST

FACT: "However bad things are outside, If you can have a delicious bath and climb into a crisp, pretty bed, everything feels better"

Image via The Decorista

Image via Lonny

Image via Pinterest

*Thank goodness for bubble baths and crisp beds!

Coastal Living

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:00:01 PST

I spend a ridiculous amount of time on the internet everyday browsing blogs and websites searching for inspiration for my blog and for work and though I agree that the internet is an amazing tool I still prefer picking up a magazine and flicking through the pages, book marking them and ripping them out for my memo board as I go along. One of my favourite magazines is Coastal Living and I usually end up bookmarking every other page because I love almost everything I see! While I have many different tastes when it comes to design coastal style and coastal living is high on my list. Below are a few of my favourite rooms featured on the pages of Coastal Living.

All images via Coastal Living

Party Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:00:03 PST

I know it's a bit early but I am planning a big birthday party and being that my favourite colour combo is black and gold I used this for inspiration when searching for decor ideas for the party. Below are some ideas that I have come up with. Lots of glitz, champagne and glamour make for a successful party! For more of my party ideas follow my Pinterest account by clicking the (P) icon on the right --->

(P)INSPIRATION via Pinterest

What makes you happy?

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Simpson *) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:03:18 PST

I'm working on a new blog feature and want your input! I'm taking inspiration from Domino magazine (see below) and starting a feature on what makes you happy? Whether it is the beach, your pet, lollipops - anything really. I want to know what makes YOU happy? Reply below or email me at lovedesigninc@yahoo.com. Lots of love***