2012 // My Favorite Classics

"The essence of interior design will always be about the people and how they live."  

~ Albert Hadley

As we are getting ready to say goodbye to another year, I have been thinking of the particulars of design that I have used/love the most.  There are many trends that come and go in a year's time.  These are several I find  to be more classic than of-the-moment.  These elements truly stand the test of time.

Who doesn't love a little animal print?  The geometric pattern of zebra paired with an ultra feminine crystal chandelier is a look I will never tire.  Leopard is my absolute favorite!  Whether it be a pillow or belt--it adds just the right amount of fierce.  Animal prints are basically neutral patterns that can easily be paired with other neutral or bold colors alike. In my opinion, a little goes a long way though.  As I had mentioned here, head to toe/ floor to ceiling animal print can be the most unfortunate.

{ANIMAL print}

[via Pinterest]

[via Elle Decor]

The sparkle and texture of a sunburst mirror can immediately elevate a space from ordinary to ultra glam.  Generally speaking, mirrors can be the least expensive (next to paint) way to change a room.  They immediately bring light and focus.  Sunburst mirrors come in many sizes, styles and finishes.  They are strong enough to stand alone or hang well with others.

{SUNBURST mirror}

[via Sukio]

                                                                                                                

Checkerboard floors made their magnificent debut in European paintings of the 15th century.  It is safe to say they are not going anywhere.  We put a black and white checkerboard in our kitchen and I love it so much.  I think I will always have one room with this fun patterned floor.  They bring classic character and whimsy to a room--and who couldn't use a little more whimsy in their lives?

 {CHECKERBOARD flooring}

      [via Veranda] 

[via The Crooked Manor]

It is safe to say I have a weakness for stripes whether it be rugs, walls or sweaters.  The linear simplicity of  stripes add strong impact and pair well with floral, bold or neutral tones.  Stripes are a habit I cannot break.  I think the nautical feel make me subconsciously think of summer which equals carefree fun.  Perhaps that is the power of the stripe!

{STRIPES}

[via Pinterest]

[via Table Tonic]