1. a natural beauty
2. a little glam
3. a little something comfortable
4. a dreamy sofa
5. and a fringed handbag
{ 0 comments }
Last weekend, a dear Boston friend [who also happens to be designer] spent the weekend with us. Of course, I took the opportunity to discuss our upcoming kitchen renovation and I was immediately challenged on my original concept. My friend’s thoughts were inclined toward honoring the mid-century design of our house by using more textural elements, mainly on the walls, which I originally wanted to cover in this wallpaper. I’m now researching other finishes to give the space a more natural and earthier look. Given my love for wall coverings and bold patterns, I’m not entirely convinced yet, but I do think I should explore other looks for this very important family space:
It is pretty, isn’t it? Take look here at my original inspiration and let me know which style you prefer. Next week I’ll reveal our kitchen as it is now, so you can get a better sense on the scope of this project.
Many thanks to MV for getting my creative juices flowing in an unpredictable direction. The whole family loved hosting you and we look forward to seeing you in July.
{ 2 comments }
This month Sunset Magazine and Galanter and Jones have teamed up for the hottest contest of the year offering a Helios Heated Lounge to the lucky winner. The lounge, which is super sleek in design is also innovative since it is heated. Literally, it’s a hot seat and I want one. I’m submitting an entry and you should too. Details on how to enter can be found here.
The Helios Lounge at Flora Grubb.
{ 2 comments }
Last Saturday I visited the The Ruth Bancroft Garden in Walnut Creek for the first time (definitely not the last). The garden is a spectacular extravaganza of succulents in different sizes, shapes, colors and textures. It was originally planted in 1972 by Mrs. Bancroft who became interested in water conserving plants after moving to the dryer climate of Walnut Creek from Berkeley. Her passion for drought tolerant gardening matured into a dramatic botanical display that both inspires and educates its visitors. My visit (not so happenstance) coincided with one of the garden’s quarterly plant sales. Following my neighbor’s advice the two of us arrived at the garden well before the sale began to ensure first picks. We shopped till we dropped. Take a look at few of my favorite images from that day.
Many, many thanks to AM, my neighbor, friend and fellow plant enthusiast for introducing me to the Ruth Bancroft Garden.
{ 0 comments }
Lately I’ve been feeling like time is passing so quickly. I look at our children in awe of their growth, both mental and physical. At times, it’s hard to believe that they where once “little”. When I try to recall infant milestones and preschool memories, their immediate presence pulls me back to the present. Fleeting as it may be I am grateful for every second of time. This week’s event and others that caused so much pain and loss leave my heart heavy and my soul searching for answers. We may never have the answers but for now we need to live in the moment with kindness and love for all we meet.
We’re thinking a lot about the city that was our home not so long ago and all our loved ones who still live there.
{ 4 comments }
During our weekend at Wilbur Hot Springs, Alex and I prepared yet another dish from the cookbook Plenty. We cooked in the hotel’s industrial and communal kitchen filled with all the culinary essentials and a great mix of people. The evenings’ preparations were not only delicious but quite entertaining. Take a look at Yotam Ottolenghi’s herbed stuffed tomatoes:
industrial strength burners
the oregano, parsley, mint, olive and panko filling
The next morning, we paired the leftovers with a black lentil salad (also from Plenty) topped with a fried egg. This cookbook has changed the way we approach our meals in a very good way. If you don’t already have own it, buy it and share your favorite dishes with me.
{ 0 comments }
It’s official. Last week Natalia began working on the West Coast version of Cocoon Home Botanicals. Using natural materials and vintage finds as planters, she used succulents, bromeliads and other plant materials to tell a green story with her one-of-a-kind compositions. Take a look at her latest projects and stay tuned for more botanical developments from Cocoon Home:
These captivating plantings are perfect for garden entertaining areas or indoors to add a touch of [low maintenance] organic energy to your interiors. If you’re interested in acquiring or commissioning a Cocoon Home botanical please contact: debra@ccocoonhome.com. We welcome botanical projects of any scale.
{ 3 comments }
1. colorful tabletop
While creating spaces of your own looking at others’ for inspiration can help define a personal style. For my own home I am gravitating toward elements present in these 7 images. Take a look:
2. ethnic accents
3. layered textiles
4. bold patterned rug
5. understated elegance
6. earthy mix
7. highly personalized space
Which of these spaces appeal to you?
{ 4 comments }
To celebrate my birthday Alex and I spent the weekend at Wilbur Hot Springs. Since our last visit was over 13 years, our return to the hotel was both nostalgic and renewing. A few things have changed since our last stay, but the effect of Wilbur’s mineral rich waters and serene landscape remained the same. At this retreat, one can’t help feeling completely relaxed in mind and body. Take a look at a few images from our weekend.
We went to the springs with the intent of celebrating my birthday, but in essence we celebrated our return to California. We are so happy to be back.
Thank you Babik for hosting the kiddies so we could spend time alone and to Alex for making this amazing weekend happen. I love you both so much!
{ 2 comments }
