Client Update: Pacific Heights

With a three week deadline and [an almost] empty space this project ended up to be one of my favorites.  A recent move from Chicago to San Francisco with few items in tow, made my Pacific Heights client realize his new space needed to feel like home and...quickly. The first thing Cocoon Home set out to do was to strategically place big plants to thrive in the amazing light, frame the awesome views and give the space a natural feel. Such a short deadline dictated that basic items needed to be sourced on the spot (no room for lead times). It was a touch of sheer luck that the start of the project coincided with the renowned Alameda Flea Market, where most of the accessories that set the tone for the apartment were acquired.  Larger pieces, i.e. furniture, were found at the Chestnut St. Pottery Barn in S.F., The Wooden Duck in Berkeley and at West Elm in Emeryville.  Our finds in each of these stores helped create the look and mood we were hoping to achieve.   Taking into consideration our client's love for Paris and french style in general, we coupled masculine metal pieces with softer white fabrics and indigo textiles to create a California home with a Parisian feel. As you enter the space, antique french documents next to a vintage typewriter atop Pottery Barn's Burke Console table help set the tone for the rest of the space.  Patterned rugs and clean lines flow and welcome one from room to room, all seemingly coordinated yet not overly intentional. In time, our client will add his own personal touches and together we'll find beautiful art and a few more rugs to add the finishing touches to this sophisticated bachelor pad.  In the interim, take at look at what was accomplished thus far in a VERY short span of time:

The Way We Live: A Textile Designer's Home

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting textile designer Jennifer Sampou at her residence and studio.  While chatting about her work, family and artistry, I captured images of my favorite home to be featured thus far. 

Jennifer is solely responsible for every design detail of her family’s amazing space.  An eclectic mix of rustic elegance, modern flair and classic touches make this home a true reflection of her distinct personal style.  You can witness firsthand the inspiration for her innate talent to create patterns and color combinations for her fabric lines as you walk through this beautiful space.  Carefully [albeit naturally], created vignettes, selected rugs and art speak to her love of travel, grounded in family and friends.

This home is abundant in warmth and focused on comfort, I could personally chill in it for hours.  So, my advice to you is:  sit back, take it all in and stay tuned for part 2 of this “The Way We Live.” 

Jennifer, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to feature your home on Cocoon Home Blog.  You’ve created a masterpiece.

The Way We Live: Classic Elements And Bohemian Accents

This happens to be the 16th home photographed and featured in my blog's [hands-down] favorite category:  The Way We Live.  Each of the spaces I have shared with you has been completely different from the rest but equally beautiful and representative of its owners' style and life experience.  I'm honored to have had the opportunity to turn my lens on this East Bay home.  Its mix of textiles, patterns and color reflect a casual elegance with an inviting coziness, making it a family friendly showcase.  Pieces that have been in the family for generations blend seamlessly with newer acquisitions, thus honoring the past and present in home decor.  In this post the owner (and friend) shares her living room, which much like the rest of her home, combines classic elements with sophisticated boho accents and feel good colors.  Take a look:

Thank you, BJP, for sharing your chic and cozy home with my Cocoon Home Blog readers.

The Way We Live: Art, Tales And Canine Friends

While in Boston, I had the opportunity to spend a night at a dear friend's place.  I've always felt welcomed and comfortable in this home.  My friend's place is earthy, eclectic and classical at the same time.  Little vignettes scattered throughout the house are meant to remind of exotic trips, special family memories or stories of a personal nature.  There are seashells from a trip we all took to Vieques Island almost 9 years ago, her Nana's favorite chair, seed pods collected on hikes in many faraway places and, of course, there is Henry (featured above).  The walls are a feast for the eyes due to an amazing art collection. While music played faintly in the background, I snapped away trying to capture a brief moment of my life in her very special space.

Thank you JG for hosting me and for sharing your warm and cozy home with our Cocoon Home Blog readers.

One of my favorite things as a blogger is to feature people's homes in "The Way We Live".  Homes that aren't overly decorated or styled, homes just as they are.  It has been gratifying to photograph so many wonderful spaces.  You can see more of them here.

I believe that Cocoon Home Blog inspires its readers to surround themselves with objects that speak to them and for them.

If you're a new visitor to my blog (via Apartment Therapy) please take a moment to look around the site.  It's where I feature work done for clientsand also share inspirational design images,botanical compositions, occasional DIY projects, and reflections on my personal journey through life.

If you like what you see and read, please cast your vote for Cocoon Home Blog here in The Homies Awards under Home Design and Inspiration.

Many Thanks!

The Way We Work: Cocoon Home Design

With the help of these images and this room inspiration, our home office has taken on the look and feel I was hoping for.   Now, the workspace that Alex and I share is both functional and comfortable.  Here are some more shots and, also, tips on creating or renovating your very own home office.

9 tips for creating an organized home office space with a personal touch: 

1.  Layer your lighting between task lamps and ceiling fixtures.

2.  Find the right chair/s for both comfort and style.

3.  Thread computer wires through drilled holes in your desk tops.

4.  Use trays, folders and/or clipboards to store mail and organize paperwork.

5.  Always have a plant, big or small, in the space.

6.  Surround yourself with images and/or objects that inspire you, but strive to keep the area uncluttered.

7.  Place a candle nearby with your favorite scent for a relaxing effect.

8.  Do have extra seating for a visiting friend, client or coworker.  This could even be a stool that doubles as an additional surface for magazines or books.

9.  Ensure your desk is at the ready with pens, pencils, paper, chargers and a glass [or two] of water.