Catalog Heaven

I often think about gathering the catalogs that clutter my mailbox and shipping them back where they came from. Just like the old Seinfeld episode when Kramer boycotts the post office. But! This week, the new West Elm catalog made me rethink that plan. The colors and patterns are wonderful, and I love the photos too!

Jason Polan Drawings

So much cool stuff! The catalog feels so fresh and so fun. Much of that comes from West Elm's collaboration with outside designers and artists, (including several Etsy artists). In the spirit of collaboration, the West Elm site features some interesting articles written by artisans from around the world in the Hand/Eye section. 

Shane Powers collection

Etsy artists

I think I need these glasses! Another cool feature in the catalog and website is the list of recommended paint colors. Yeah! All of you who are scared of paint colors, go here and get some help:) Have I conveyed my excitement, well enough? West Elm, I'm sure you are holding your breath until you hear my opinion, so breathe easy now. Props, for a job well done!

Pretty Little Girls

This morning I was greeted by these sweet illustrations in my email. Artist Alice Dufay captures little moments with great simplicity. They can be found on L'affiche Moderne which is a great site for limited edition prints.

Judge A Book By Its Cover

I love receiving my weekly Houzz updates, because they are a little treat waiting for me in my email. This weekend I especially loved the photos of a little house with a modern soul. If I were walking down the street and came across this place, I would wish that I could run inside. Funny enough, I have seen the inside because it is the home of Morgan of The Brick House. (Some time ago I mentioned this blog here).

The Brick House is all about modern design on a budget, which is an idea that is close to my heart. It frustrates me that we tend to associate modern with large expense! Don't get me wrong I love reading Dwell or Architectural Digest as much as the next person, but that isn't really practical for most of us, right? Fortunately, Morgan doesn't let a small budget hold her back and I LOVE this amazing detail on the front of the house. I have to confess that I'm including this photo in hopes that it might inspire all you modern lovers who think your house could never express your ideas. Just think a little out of the box...ha, ha!

Wow! Check out the before pic.

The backyard is fantastic!

Finally, I couldn't resist this photo because the simplicity of it is so wonderful. I envy Morgan's ability to live with very few items. I try to do this myself but often fail:( Having so many blank spaces allow your mind to wander and reflect. (Said the hard-core introvert!).

Design Find: Bendant Lamp

Ooh, ooh! I'm loving this piece
for its color and its great price!
Find at Uncommon Goods (Brooklyn, not Austin).

Break Out The Spray Paint!

I'm not too big on DIY, but these lampshades just might change my mind!
Found via Eddie Ross' blog.

Can You Keep Decorating If Your Money Is All Gone?

You can if you decorate college dorm style. I found this article via The New York Times about some very creative college students and their cheap decorating tricks. The two photos above are so cool, I would be willing to pay good money to copy the look. But they are both assembled from found pieces! Times being what they are, I guess we are all going to have to get creative.

Great Ebay Finds.

I really enjoy reading Joanna Goddard's blog, Cup of Jo. She always posts beautiful photos and interesting articles. I really enjoy her style. She is selling some of her personal items on Ebay, and true to her style...they are very cool. My favorite pieces are the postcards and charming dress. Ahh, to be an "Xtra Small".

Design at a Bargain-Butterfly Prints

When it comes to finding accessories for a home, I can be a bit of a snob. I don't necessarily think that a house has to be filled with very costly items or rare antiques, but I don't like poorly made items that are sold by the thousands. Occasionaly, I find a chain store item that I love anyway, so I decided to share them. The first items I want to share are these beautiful butterfly prints from Pottery Barn. The prints have a wonderful array of colors, and the simple black frames, can work in almost any room. The small 8"x10" frames start at only $39.00, and my personal favorite, the "Quad scape" is only $299.00 for the set of four. I really love these prints, but if I start seeing them all over the place, I reserve the right to change my mind. I know, I know, so snobby.