Recommended Reading

Sometimes I wish the whole world could be black and white all over! What would that be like? It might be like a blog I recently discovered called Hem. The black and white design is plentiful and so is its Scandinavian style.  

Of course, shots of beautiful color would be allowed. Especially if the color comes from something as pretty as this floral arrangement.

I could have reposted most of this blog, but thought I would leave the rest of the treasures for all of you to find:)

Soulful Retreat

Dreaming about this moody and sensual home, today. I love the black wood floors and dark walls. I imagine this to be a place that would inspire a great novel.

I had a jaw-dropping moment, when I saw this bathroom! The white marble and wood clad walls, oh my!

Via Yatzer

Dreaming of The Black Pearl

I know what you're thinking. "Oh, the Johnny Depp dreams again". Who me? Never...o.k. maybe. But that really isn't what I meant, by this title. Its actually the name of this gorgeous townhome  in Rotterdam. A total reformation of this century old building has resulted in an amazingly innovative home. I think my favorite detail is the bright green wall on the exterior. It looks like some sort of fabric, but I wasn't able to find any info. about it. Its awesome, though!!

The unusual details in this house are worth studying for a while. Especially if you need some ideas to kick you in the pants!  Find more info. at We Heart , Studio Rolf. fr , and one of my new favorite blogs The Best Part  .

Real Estate Stalking: Austin

Yesterday morning, Mark and I said "Let's go to Austin!" Without any prior preparation we took off. It was a great time and I came back with treats. I happened upon this Artful cottage. when I took a wrong turn. (Sometimes mistakes are wonderful, eh?)

I only saw the exterior, but I knew the interior would have to be just as fantastic and it is. Hooray! Look at this place. At less than 1000sqft. its tiny, but who wouldn't be willing to make the sacrifice? Of course, the price tag is for you to make a decision about. Sorry, I can't help you there:(

Whoever photographed this house, I would like to say, bravo! These shots are amazing. I'm imagining framing the photo above and hanging it as art. Love it. (P.S. if you're wondering why I didn't take photos myself as I usually do. We left so suddenly, I didn't get to pack up my camera. I felt naked all day)

How many fantastic parties, could happen out here, I wonder?

The second treat is this little yellow house. Another mini house with lots of personality. I don't think this photo shows it so well, but the pretty color scheme really pops. Especially, that fantastic red door. I love driving around Austin neighborhoods because the houses are so unique and imaginative. I always feel inspired when I return home.

Another thing I love about the little yellow house is that it faces Sparky Park. I had never heard of it until yesterday, but I'm smitten with it now. It was built by converting a former substation into a piece of public art. I recommend stopping by if you are in the neighborhood.

Living Small, Living Well

Lately, I've been thinking about living small, efficient and practical. In fact, I don't know why I said "thinking about living small" like its a new concept, when I do live small already! What I really should say, is living in a small home that also qualifies as dream living. Like perhaps on a beautiful Hawaiian beach, maybe?

Surrounded by so much natural beauty, why would anyone need an enormous house. I would rather feel like I live outside...with air conditioning of course!
(I found this house on an amazing site my sister introduced me to called Trendir. Check it out for some more amazing modern homes. Just be prepared to spend a lot of time there)

Green Day 2!

Funny, I wasn't even feeling green until I saw this photo! I may also be feeling a little green with envy.

I Love Nateday!

Happy Nateday! If you don't know what I'm talking about go to Twitter and find all the bloggers writing about the amazing Nate Berkus. I found out about late in the game but I want to play along anyway. Here is one of my favorite posts from 2008..Yikes!! I think you'll understand how I feel about that Nate:)

Of course, I mean Nate Berkus. Elle Decor features the redesign of Berkus' personal home this month. It looks so wonderful I just had to take the opportunity to declare my true love for Nate. He has won my heart for a couple of reasons. First, the use of very eclectic accessories and furniture. Second, because of the amazing striped rugs. I don't know what it is with me and the stripes.

Any other Berkus fan club members, out there?

Feeling Tipsy

Hello, all! I had to share this video of an unbelievable house that is now on the market. It is space-age fabulous!!! Designed by Richard T. Foster in 1968, the Rotating House is ingenious. Once inside, you can rotate the house to face any view of the beautiful property it sits on. Love it! 

P.S.  Monday's post didn't appear here because of problems with Blogger. I did post a link on my Twitter and Facebook sites. Be sure and check out another amazing home there. As for the explanation of where I've been...still to come, I promise.

On The Quirky Side

Hello everyone! For those of you who may wonder where I've been, I apologize for the long silence. Life's been kind of crazy lately and my blogging has been paying the price. Well, I did want to post this unique and quirky loft in New York. Designed by Bohl Architects, it uses plenty of fun and off-beat details.

Ha, ha! This detail really cracks me up. I mean, if you want a random blue eye staring at you; why not have one, right?
(I have a feeling this photo may cause some controversy amongst readers)

As a designer, I've always found it frustrating that so many people will only live with things that others approve of! I can't say how many times I've heard the words, "I need to know if my sister likes it" or "My mother", "My neighbors"...etc. Why?! If its your home and your place to live and rest, why can't it just mean something to you? I look as a home as a sanctuary and as a place that feeds your inner self. So shouldn't it be a true representation of yourself? Ahhh, this has been my soapbox for many years. I hope at least a few people will stop and consider my words and take true ownership of their environment.
Don't know why I seem so bossy today.

Friday Favorite: Unhappy Hipster

I know I'm not the first blogger to write about Unhappy Hipster, but it is sooo funny. I've been practically in tears. Thanks to Swamplot for finding this site, and pointing out at least one Houston home that has been included. Can you find it? Hope you get a good laugh on your Friday:) (Also thought this was funny after my last post)

Have a great weekend!