Neutrals + Pattern = Personality

"Keep busy searching out new ideas and, experimentally, keep ahead of the times, or at least up with them." ~ Dorothy Draper

It is shocking to look back at the fashion and decor choices we have make over the years.  We are influenced, inspired and swayed every single day by the many images we encounter.  Sometimes you don't even realize you are changing.  I have noticed myself changing over the last year and craving simplicity and calm in my own home.  Design-wise, this has translated itself into neutral rooms with plenty of mixed patterns.  

I know that it is quite possible I will not be drawn to this look by next year.  This is one of the reasons I love working in the interior design field.  I am smitten with so many styles of decorating, I can get my "fix" while choosing pieces for a client.  Do you find your style changes every few years? 

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Have the best day ever!

Campaign Chic

"I believe in plenty of optimism and white paint."  ~ Elsie de Wolfe

My oldest daughter has been in need of a nightstand or two for years now.  We have been rotating old, unused tables in her room, none of which are an asset to her room.  I finished decorating her space two.years.ago and knew that was all that she needed.  It is amazing how easily you can get sidetracked and completely forget about these little things.  During bedtime kisses I remember that I need to begin the search and then *poof!* the thought is gone by morning.  Unbelievable!

I am completely obsessed with Campaign style furniture and knew I wanted to use that type of night table.  I  I am drawn to the strength of the sharp, defined lines paired with a bright, unexpected color--also brass hardware makes everything better in my book.  She has a girly white bed and a faux bamboo dresser and I thought this vintage trunk style would be a nice mix.  

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I have been trying to decide if I want to buy a vintage piece like a few of these gems I found on Etsy...

beauty #1

beauty #2

beauty #3

...or buy an Ikea Rast and do a fabulous hack?  I have been aching to do a DIY project, so this might be perfect.  I already know I want to paint it glossy magenta with gold hardware.  I just need to decide which avenue to take.  Hmm......

Have the best day ever!

Little Luxuries // Father's Day

"Fatherhood is pretending the present you love most is soap-on-a-rope." ~ Bill Cosby

From the ducklings...

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From the boss...

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Have the best Father's Day ever!

That Rockin' Edge

"Music can change the world because it can change people."  ~ Bono

Lately, I have been moving toward quiet, neutral rooms with plenty of pattern.  I have also been drawn to the  appeal of  unexpected art.  I love the idea of having a perfectly chic room with one large piece of bad ass musician art.  Andrew would undoubtedly choose someone from Rush or Ted Nugent.  As for me, a giant print of Adam Levine's mug would be a nice focal point. ;-)  However, I think we will have to meet somewhere in the middle.  I find photography of the face so interesting.  Each person has something beautiful and something sad in their eyes.

I have been slowly turning my attention toward the space above our mantle.  This has always been a challenging area for me because there are so many lovely options.  We recently hung our fab sconces that we bought in New Orleans.   They are elegantly quirky and need some grit to make that wall interesting.  I think a photograph of musician might just be the ticket!  

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Have the best day ever!

Obsessed // Sunburst Mirrors

"Be original and your home will speak for itself."  ~ Brett Schwebke

Hello.  My name is Lisa and I have an addiction to......sunburst mirrors.  I love them and look for them everywhere  from antique shops to Home Depot.  I feel they add just the right bit of classic chic to any space.  Most elements of a room are rectangular and sunburst mirrors add softness, but with an edge.  They now can be found in a variety of materials and price ranges to suit all tastes and pocketbooks .  I use them in my home and always encourage them for clients.  They have been around for hundreds of years, so it is safe to say they aren't going anywhere.

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It has been stated that these detailed beauties were a result of antiques dealers converting the many religious artifacts of the late 17th century French Revolution by replacing photographs of saints with mirror within these ornate frames.  In present day, these interesting mirrors are comfortable in any style room whether it be modern or traditional.  

I have never thought of myself as a collector of sorts because I tend to tire quickly of the same design accents. Considering we now have seven [really?!] within the house,  I guess it's safe to say I have started an addiction [cough, cough].  I mean.....collection.  Hey, it could be worse.  I could be collecting, oh say, lamps.  Wait!  Uh, I also have a weakness for lighting.  But that, my friends, is a topic for another addiction meeting!  Have a great Tuesday. ;-)

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Have the best day ever!

"The Graduate" Inspired Patio

"And here's to you, Mrs. Robinson."  ~ Simon and Garfunkel

How awesome is "The Graduate"?  Recently, I found myself watching it for the hundredth time.  Dustin Hoffman is absolutely brilliant as the confused, college grad Benjamin Braddock.  You feel both sympathy and humor in his situation.  The story as well as each character is strong and quirky.

As much as I love the plot, I have always been most smitten with Mrs. Robinson's house.  The mid-century California style always has me rewinding to soak in every elegant detail.  I was most taken with the black and white stripes against the tropical background found in the home's solarium.  The pale pink wall color and variety of textures make it oh so chic. These white leather bar stools and eclectically well-stocked bar are insanely incredible.  

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When it came time to decorate our outdoor patio, I wanted to use some of the elements I loved so much about Mrs. Robinson's solarium.  Being that our space is completely open to the outdoors, I had to alter my vision to use only weather friendly furnishings.  I wanted our space to be comfortable, stylish yet playful.  In Houston, the days are sweltering but the evenings are always perfectly perfect.  We have plans to spend a lot of time chillin' out here with games, cocktails and dinners.  

Have the best day ever!

Little Luxuries// Warm Weather Grub

"The greatest wealth is health."  ~ Virgil

By the time summer gets here, I am in dinner burnout mode.  Making several versions of a meal [thanks to some picky eaters] leaves me void of ideas and motivation.  Enter summer! All the fresh produce [and the fact I have to wear a swimsuit] inspires me to make lighter, easier meals.  Pinterest is an amazing resource for ideas.  The delicious photography and simple recipes are making my stomach growl!  These are some yummy treats that have caught my eye.  What are some of your summer go-to meals?

What is better than strawberry shortcake?  Um...nothing.  It is just the right amount of sweet and airy goodness.  It is also an ideal light dessert after the heavy fixins' of a barbecue.  Strawberries are in season, so this is the time to take advantage of this juicy produce perfection.

I have always wanted to make our own pizza.  We have yet to find a delicious pizza joint in Houston and frankly, it's sad.  Our grocery store just started selling raw dough and I am thinking a pizza party is in order.  This healthy version looks absolutely mouth-watering.  Pair this with a glass of chilled white and you've got yourself a winner [plus the wine will help the kids sleep all night!]. ;-)

I can put a serious hurt on a helping of chips and guacamole.  If you eat enough, it really is the perfect meal with a margarita.  This salad has all the flavorful ingredients of guac, without the calories of those blasted chips!

 My kids will eat just about anything if it is encased in a tortilla.  Why not try a little fruit?! This recipe sounds delish thanks to the combination of juicy nectarine and zippy jalapeno.  Of course, the heat will have to be replaced for the little ones, but I like the general idea.  You could really use any cheese, fruit and heat combination to make it your own.

Anything by Ina Garten is golden in my book.  I made this sandwich a few years ago and it was a big hit.  I did replace the goat cheese with cream cheese though.  Goat cheese tastes like the smell of a nasty gym locker to me....so that will not make it on our sandwich....ever. This time I may use blue cheese.  Mmmm!

 I just tried kale this year as it's kind of the "vegetable of the moment".  I love the bitterness and crunch.  My friend Charity made a simple kale, avocado and lemon juice salad and I thought I would give it a whirl.  It was so good!  Andrew and I ate every bite. So, this baby really caught my eye because I love a salad with a lot of stuff.  It's also perfect because the protein of the chicken and chickpeas will help it stay with you.  I LOVE a good salad but find I am hungry again within an hour.  This kind of defeats the purpose of healthy eating . :-)

Have the best day ever!