Mixing Metallic Finishes

Mixing metal finishes always seems to trip people up (as does wood finishes but more on that another time). I am here to set the record straight. Mix away my friends! You'll notice that it has become fashion forward to mix metallic finishes with jewelry and clothing, well the same goes for interiors. And really there is nothing new about mixing metallic finishes in a beautifully designed space. Good designers have always done this. Anyone can go buy a suite of furniture with matching finishes but who wants a room that is so flat and boring? The goal is to look like you have collected pieces over a lifetime that have interest and vary in texture and finish. So, don't worry if you have chrome chairs and fall in love with a brass chandelier, it will look like you have the guts to display items in your home that reflect your personality and your unique sense of style. Be you and you will be surprised at how much you love being in your home.

Notice the gold graphic wallpaper that is a backdrop for brass table lamps, the silver finish console table and bronze starburst wall sculpture.
image via Decorpad

Hello! Cartier does not get it wrong you guys.

image via Cartier

San Sebastian, Spain or Donostia for Those in the Know

Today I thought I would share some beautiful images of San Sebastian, Spain. In college I went here to study abroad with my best friend. I obviously had an amazing time. I learned that the world is so big, I learned how to slow down, how to drink wine and coffee (slowly and with purpose), how to journal and draw, how to appreciate good food, good books and a long walk. I also learned just enough proper Spanish to order pizza over the phone and ask for something politely, like more ice and water sin gas por favor. It is also in Spain that I fell in love with my husband and really, really began to love and appreciate home. So, to share a bit of my history with you I thought I would find some amazing photography that captures this most amazing and beautiful of European beach cities. Con mucho amor....


A birds eye view of Gros Beach, about 5 blocks from my apartment. Image via Google

The park in front of 5 star Hotel, Maria Cristina. Image via Bichuas on Flickr

Image via Bichuas on Flickr

A detail on one of the bridges that connects the newer parts of town to the older. Image via Bichuas on Flickr

A shot of the calle running parallel to La Concha Beach. Image via Viadleiva on Flickr

A shot of La Concha Beach, which I walked the length of to classes most of the week. Image via Filtran on Flickr

On the way to Parte Vieja. A man selling newspapers on this bridge paid my friend and I a compliment every morning. A very nice memory. Image via Bichuas on Flickr

A common site. The old man sitting on the boardwalk and an ominous looking storm brewing over the ocean. Image via dr84.com

Parte Vieja where the good times rolled! All of the bars and restaurants are here. Image via Google.

Oh the beautiful pinchos! It's the honor system when you pay. You tell the bartender how many of which you had and then pay up. In the basque country these are "pinchos" not "tapas". Get it correct because if you don't you will get the stare down. Trust me. Image via unknown. oops!

La Concha Beach

The smell of very strong cappuccino still reminds me of Spain. They were slightly annoyed at all of the Americanos ordering un doble cafes con leche. We still thought we could get "our way."
It's not Starbucks you stupid kids!
Image via Flickr

Inspiration that Leads to Design

I have a lot of people ask how you get started decorating a room. A lot of people assume you begin with paint. Well, I think the best plan of attack is inspiration. Sometimes you just need to do what you really love and what you know will put you in a creative state of mind, like wandering through a gallery and falling in love with a piece of artwork. Sometimes you just need to start window shopping to get the juices flowing. For me, flipping through shelter magazines and following a random trail of design blogs usually turns up something beautiful to look at. For instance the photo above I found on Flickr instantly made me want to design a swingy sexy living room. Yeah baby (please say with Austin powers accent). It evokes so much of an attitude that it makes it impossible for me not to want to pull a room out of it. For many designers a lead fabric, a rug or artwork are really great jumping off points. They can instantly determine the color palette and the feeling of a space. Obviously a designer is equipped to pull together existing pieces as well as design projects from the ground up but if you are starting from scratch those are the perfect items to start with! I hope this helps those of you if you who need to make a go of decorating on your own and if you need a little more help than please call a professional. You will have a well designed space that will make you happy for years.

Here is my interpretation of the photograph above. I had fun pulling items for my make believe room. If you would like specifics on any of the items please email me.
images via unknown, Decorpad, Casa Suger, 1st Dibbs, unknown, The Rug Company

Modern Coffins "For When You Want to Go Out In Style"

This was too funny not to share. I prefer the gold one lined in fur.....

BOO!

Happy Nevada Day to everyone in NV! I also want to wish you a Happy Halloween. I hope it's spooky and fun. I've got one race car driver and one little monkey to take trick or treating this year. Be safe and buy only the candy you hate for passing out. Trust me on this.

images via Bloomacious and Better Homes & Gardens

Wilson and Associates Launches Blueplate Studios

I am very proud to have worked at one the world's premier Interior Design firms. I have had the opportunity of working on spectacular projects around the world and of working with some fabulous designers who really showed me what good taste and hard work was all about. Wilson and Associates is known not for a particular style but rather of providing each client a unique design specifically suited to the project. I got to meet Trisha Wilson, Founder and CEO of the self-named design firm, a couple of times in our Beverly Hills office and she was true to the rumors that circulated. She was glamorous, Southern and very high energy. She passed by our conference room and paid me a compliment by way of noticing and liking a color scheme being put together with another very talented designer (Tricia Tay). I die(d)! Anyhow, Ms. Wilson is a mighty good business woman and she is once again revolutionizing her design firm by offering a new specialty food and beverage design studio called Blueplate Studios. Based out of the Singapore office, Dan Kwan has already designed and opened 25 beautiful projects. Here are some gorgeous shots of their work. Go Team Wilson!

all images via Wilson & Associates

Red Ribbon Studio, part ii

Yippie! Maribeth from Red Ribbon Studio sent more images for us to enjoy.

Red Ribbon Studio

Today's post features the very talented Maribeth Romslo of Red Ribbon Studio. To steal a little blurb from her website, her photography is described as "fresh" and "joyful." Take a little looky looky at her portfolio and I assure you that you will agree. Besides, I like it when people are passionate about what they do. It comes through in their work and just a little bit of that joy rubs off on you. Who doesn't need a little bit more joy? Me please. Anyhow, Maribeth's work has been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, Real Simple Weddings, Elegant Brides and on Style Me Pretty. Frankly, I'm lucky she bothers with me. I think it helps she's shooting my best friend's wedding in April. She is sharing some macro shots of flowers that she has been taking lately and I am big on photography that brings the outside in. So, enjoy and please take a look at Maribeth's website here.

Thank You!

I just want to give a shout out to all of you design lovers out there in Europe, Asia and the Middle East! I see you and I love you!

image via art.com

Plaid is Rad

Plagiarism is Awesome

Pairing rooms and beautiful fashion has become all the rage in the blogging world and I have sort of refused to copy the idea but that ain't gonna stop me from plagiarizing right now! Somehow that's okay. Welcome to Amy's world. My favorite blogger is Cassandra from Coco & Kelly and she put these pairings together which are soooooooooooooo pretty. Now, of course I had to visit the Interior Designer, Kishani Perera's website, which will REALLY make you want to hire an Interior Designer the next go around. You also may want to grab a glass of champagne and start ordering people around immediately! Anyhow, it's all to die for. Enjoy, compliments of the command "c" key.

Mother Nature's Inspiration

As the weather is starting to turn chilly here in Vegas (all the way down in the low 70s today!) I am starting to think about how I want to decorate for the upcoming holidays. Normally I'm all glitz and glamour but this year I feel like incorporating lots of neutrals and earthtones. I'd like to infuse a bit of nature this year. So, in an effort to refine my thoughts I wanted to gather some mood shots for my own holiday decorating scheme. Here is what I've come up with.


Photography by John Paul Urizar

Image via Apartment Therapy

Image via Anne Sage

Image via Pottery Barn

Newmoon Nesting Bowls via Etsy

Photography by lepiaf.geo via Flickr

Photography by John Paul Urizar

Photography by Patrina Tinslay

Hibiscus Coasters via Etsy

Canisters via Horchow

Magnolia

Magnolia , originally uploaded by aussiegall.

A perfect magnolia bloom. My favorite tree. A beautiful childhood scent, A lover's memory. What's this to do with design? Well, everything.

Flower Power!

I am so in love with this pretty dining area. It is simple and unpretentious. The mid century modern chairs, open shelves and chandelier are just plain pretty. Besides, those fresh flowers are to die for. My number #2 secret for making any room beautiful is fresh flowers (#1 is decluttering)! Go forth this weekend and buy blooms and throw something away. You'll thank me. Happy Friday lovelies.




am guessing the image is via elle decor

Black is the New Black

I presented a black wall covering to a client and it speaks to her coolness that she loved it! Super sophisticated and bad a$$. You know like Kate Moss or Barack Obama. Oh for Pete's sake, it was a joke-calm down! Anyhow, it is awesome to use black on the walls if you dare. Take a look at these images and give me one good reason you shouldn't. You wish you were this cool.

all images via DecorPad

I'm Hungry for a Little Fashion

I want to look at some pink ruffles and aubergine lipstick today. Sometimes a little dose of fantasy is just what we need. Mmmm....look at that color scheme! Delicious.

image via flickr, photographer unknown

Anne Coyle is Sweeeeeet

If you love shelter magazines, than you've seen Anne Coyle's work. She fell into the world of design by remodeling her own Chicago home and now has an uber successful interior design business. Her bio reads that she loves the color of sweet tarts which is a little annoying and very cute all at the same time. May be I just need one more cup of coffee? Anyhow, Anne's playful and intentional use of the color wheel is something to admire as is her business savvy. I'll have one more cup please with cream AND sugar.

all images via Anne Coyle

Decorate With Plates

image via Curbly

My friend Sandra collected an assortment of plates for her wedding reception. The mix of patterns and colors was a fun way to add a touch of eclecticism that suits her perfectly. She sent me an email asking about how she and her new hubby could decorate their apartment with these same plates and good Lord what a Google search will turn up! I had previously not been a plate hanging kind of girl but I am now digging through my cupboards wondering how I too can get this look. This is another cheap, fun and easy way to decorate a boring wall.

image via Design, Decor

image via entertaining.dinnerwarecenter

image via Bluelines

image via Apartment Therapy

Viceroy Hotel, designed by Kelly Wearstler

image via Renovate and Decorate

image source unknown

image via Recover Girl

image via Point Click Home

image via Country Living

image via Hub Pages

image via Apartment Therapy

image via Home Sweet Home

Varnish is Engines a Go

Ahhhhhh.....I'm back! Sorry for the unannounced absence in posting. For those of you unfortunate enough to be in my path the past few months, you know that I took that mean old NCIDQ test this last Friday and couldn't muster much else. Anyhow, it's all over, I feel great about the test and will be sure to announce my victory or loss to you as soon as I find out the results. You'll have either have to send me crates of champagne or heavy sedatives based on the outcome. Today I want to share a beautiful home in San Francisco featured in Dwell which was designed by husband and wife team, Samaha+Hart Architecture. What I love about this home is the unapologetic marriage of Victorian and Modern styles. Plenty of designers out there, including myself, really think that juxtaposing two very different styles is dynamic and sort of soothing all at once. It shows that you can move forward into the future of design without abandoning history and that rich patina that comes with it. Please enjoy the photos and remember if you love it than it's right!

*My subscriber list was somehow erased so if you would like to add your email address to the subscription box it would be much appreciated! If you would also like to click on that nifty little link voting for Varnish to receive a blog award at the top right hand column I will send you a dozen roses and box of candy.

The front facade of the home

The rear facade (just kinda a little bit different than the front huh?!)

To die for purple bathroom

The owner found $100 p/s.f. glass mosaic tile she couldn't afford so she and a friend ordered small glass shards on the internet and hand glued them to the backsplash! My kinda girls!

Notice the traditional dining room furniture and chandelier in the foreground and the sleek modern stair in the background. Me love.

A clean white bed is the only way to go.

all images via Dwell

Rehab Vintage Desks

image source unknown

We were given an old steel tanker desk by a friend and had every intention of having a new powdercoat put on and using it. Sadly, when we moved from the South Bay back to Las Vegas we stupidly left it on the curb for some other DIYer to adopt it. I SO REGRET that! At the time I was 6 months pregnant and didn't care about anything other than where my next meal was coming from so I'll just go ahead and blame that blunder on my first born. Anyhow, the reason I bring this painful, painful memory up is because I ran across the image above of a cool vintage desk and thought I'd share Rehab Vintage with you. They have all kinds of vintage goodies for all you cool cats out there.

all images via Rehab Vintage

utility:home

Well, I don't normally feature many product lines that I haven't stumbled upon by serendipity bit I got a nice email from Susan Fisher over at utility:home and I decided to share her fun product line with you all. This designer went to the Yale School of Arts (yes, be impressed) and her products have been featured in Modern Bride and InStyle. They would be a fun addition to any party and the nod to vintage modern makes them stand out in a crowd. I mean, why have match boxes from the bad bar you went to in the 90s lying around if you can pull out these sweet pink tipped ones? Anyhow, go visit her site and if you need a custom designed product, well she does that too!

Pink Tipped Tube Matches

Pocket Matches

Coasters

Note Cards

Mood Boards

I have made many a mood board for client presentations.  They are integral to conveying everything from mood to color to actual fabric and furniture selection.  I do keep files and books for myself with article clippings, paint swatches and anything else that strikes my fancy but I have to admit I have never made a mood board for myself.  That is going to change.  I have always viewed them as work but there is no reason to be stuffy and rigid about it.  I am so inspired by the mood boards shown below.  They are sweet and have a fluidity about them.  A couple of them are personal mood boards I found on Flickr but most of them are entries for a contest that Decor8 held and I missed out on.  You will love them-I promise. They make me realize that a tack board behind my workstation is all I need to get going on keeping visual tabs on the things that make me look forward to design.

A Powder Room to Love and a Polaroid Experiment

I have two random images for you today, one very hip and modern, the other is oh-so chic and fancy.  They having nothing to do with one another except for the fact that I love them both and have been wanting to include them in a post for a while.  The Polaroids would be a creative way to keep kids your involved in their environment and well the powder room is just to die for.  Happy Friday and please take a moment to vote for Varnish to receive a Love This Site award here!

image via Decor Pad

Gotta Love Flickr Explore

bench monday... feeling crafty, originally uploaded by dottieangel.

I could not have said it better myself. Isn't his the cutest image? I had to share it with you.

Texture Says, "Touch Me, Love Me!" Not Really, but Kinda.

All of these rooms have something in common-texture.  I want to act like my boxer (my dog not my husband's undies) and just roll around in all of these rooms.  hmmmmm......didn't come out right again, did it?  Anyhow, I trust you get my meaning here.  Layer your fabrics, finishes and even accessories for a room that is just begging to be enjoyed.

Notice the faux fur throw on the worn leather sofa.  Even the nail head trim and pewter candlesticks add a different texture.  And don't forget that faceted vase sitting on the floor to mix it up even more.

The details of things make them special.  Here the leather and knit say, "cozy and sophisticated."  Not literally though, I mean obviously the chair and trunk cannot talk.

Metal detailing, antique leather, fur area rugs and rustic wood doors and floors make this one swingin bachelor pad.

This is my favorite.  A cozy nook to read featuring a brick wall, a modern upholstered armchair, a felt throw pillow and SHAG ottoman.  This must be my alternate universe somewhere cold or rainy.

All  images via Living Etc.

*While you are being so kind and reading my blog, would you do me the great favor of voting for Varnish to receive a Love This Site award at DivineCaroline ?  It only takes a second and you will go straight to heaven for it.

Alice in Wonderblog

Today is one of those days where I just fell down a rabbit hole on the Internet and came up with lovely, lovely inspiration.  It always amazes me how creative people are and the depth from where that creativity springs.  Places of joy, of pain and inevitably struggle.  I started at Decor8 and ended up at Graphic-Exchange, all the while going googlie eyed over packaging design, graphics, photography, typography and eventually landed on these beautiful chairs designed by Tone & Tone for kids by leif-designpark for little ones.  Please enjoy and if you have a minute travel down an unknown Internet path-you never know what you'll discover!

Follow Up with Color Blocking Your Bookshelves and Chalkboard Paint

I thought I'd start the week by sharing a few photos of my newly rearranged bookshelf and my new chalkboard frames in the kitchen.  I would also like to extend a challenge that you try at least one of these ideas and then share them with us here!  Please email a photo and a quick little note that I can include in a post.  I don't want you to think I don't take my own advice and try out some of these nifty design ideas on myself.  It may take WAY longer than I'd like but eventually I'll check them off my list.  I keep seeing color blocking everywhere I look and this is FREE folks so there's no reason not to give a try.  I'll admit that I had a little help from the husby but he's good.  I took on the chalkboard paint myself though and I'm really having fun leaving quotes and notes for the fam.  Anyhow, I hope you get a chance this Fall to start tackling some new decorating around your place.  There is a great article on the editor's page in Met Home this month about the psychology of decorating one's home.  It's wonderful and very inspiring.  Anyhow, the photos are certainly amateur but I hope you can appreciate the effort.  Have a wonderful Monday and I hope to see what you are doing!

Photo of Strodl Home

Photo of Strodl Home

Photo of Strodl Home

Photo of Strodl Home

Photo via Dwell

Image via Elle Decor

You Know I'm Bad

Now I have to be honest here.  I would be petrified to even think about trying this color scheme (which is polychromatic if you must know) but I love it.  It's zingy and feminine, which a mother of two boys can really appreciate.  I feel energized just looking at this image, it seems like fun time are just waiting to happen here.  The Michael Jackson album covers are really the icing on the cake!  Now please stop singing Pretty Young Thing and go paint something teal.

Image via Decor Pad

I'm Seeing Red!

It must be September because I am always drawn to red in the Fall.  This year I seem to be wanting to pair it with all shades of blue.  This all-American color scheme will never be out of style and all it takes is tweaking the shades to make it fresh and modern.  Here are some beautiful examples of this twist on a classic color combination.

Photograph by Anna Wolf

Image via Schumacher

Image via Schumacher

Image via Decor Pad

Image via Decor Pad

Image via Decor Pad

I heart Green Beds and Pink Ceilings

Oh sighhhhhh....my girlfriend sent me this image and I die!  Not sure exactly who designed the room but I have had that fabric swatch (the bedding and gold chair) sitting on my desk for several years now.  It is from Decorator's Walk and was designed by, of course, Ms. Kelly Wearstler.  At $100 p/yd. it's still a bit out of reach for Amy.  Some happy, sparkly day I will have a bench covered in that fabric.  I promise.

This image came from Cassandra over at Coco & Kelly, my favorite blog!  About a month ago, I fervently searched for an image with a bright pink ceiling to convince a client I wasn't loco in la cabeza for suggesting we paint her office ceiling fuschia.  Well, I didn't have any luck finding anything to show her but the trusting client she was, she went for it.  It looks fantastic!  I'll be posting images of that project next month.  For now, it's nose to the grindstone

Amy's Idyllic Summer Vacation

via Coastal Living

It's nasty out ya'll.  It's 110 degrees in Las Vegas right now, there's ash in the air from the California fires and it's muggy to boot.  Did I just say' "to boot?" Anyhow, I am dreaming of Maui since my friend is headed there for her honeymoon.  I've been once and swore on all that was good and pure that I'd be back.  Here's to vacations in the future!  May you all find yourselves with a good book, a cocktail and a new little swim suit at the beach.

via Bridal Guide

via SeattleMet

Bathing suite by Ashley Paige, via Sports Illustrated

Sandra & Ben's Wedding in the Woods

I thought I would share some photos of my friend Sandra's Sonoma wedding in the Redwoods that I was in this last weekend.  Her talented sister, Stacey, is the photographer so please check out her blog for more gorgeous work.  Enjoy!

Organizing Made Easy

Okay, I totally screwed up.  I meant to have these posts out to you last week while I was on vacation but I made a rookie blogger mistake.  I'm sure you just didn't know what to do with yourselves not having a daily dose of Varnish (sarcasm there guys).  Anyhow I am now getting twice the break because I am still going to share my guest posts with you all.  I wouldn't want you to miss out. I'm so happy to have had my sister-in-law Lindsay moonlight for me.  Lindsay is one of those people who is naturally organized.   She is so talented at keeping her home beautifully organized.  It's like a a well oiled machine and I could take a few tips so I figured you could too.  Here are some of her favorite ideas for keeping clutter at bay.  Thanks Linz!

....I love to organize.  I love to put things where they are supposed to go.  I love to find the perfect spot for everything.  Having an organized home makes my life so much easier.  Not everyone feels the same way I do, but if you would like to have a more organized home, and maybe, make your life a little easier too, here are some simple tips on getting your home organized and keeping it that way.

1.   Have a pretty basket or have several baskets right by the door. That way, when you walk in your house, you can put your keys, purse, wallet, and cell phone in the basket. You will always know where they are, and you will not waste time looking for them. Before you go to bed at night, make sure that you have everything you need for the next day in this basket: mail, grocery list, water bottle.  Do the same with children’s backpacks and diaper bags.  It will save you precious minutes as you rush out the door the next day.

   photo via House Beautiful

2.  Keep a clear over-the-door shoe rack in your hall closet.  Use the cubbies for sunglasses, sunglass cases, phone chargers, battery chargers, cameras, and other items.  This is a great place to store gloves, scarves, and hats in the winter.  It is also a great place to keep small items that you would otherwise throw in a junk drawer and never find again. 

photo of Lindsay's Hall Closet

 3.  Keep a basket with a lid in your home office that is used solely for receipts you might need later.  When you come home from shopping, put your receipt in the basket.  That way, if you need to return that sweater, you will know exactly where to find the receipt.

photo via Dwell

 4.   If you have kids, you know how much stuff they own. If their toys are taking over your living room, buy a storage ottoman or a really great toy box that can hide most of the stuff. Try to keep the toys that stay in the living room limited to what can fit in that box.  The other toys need to stay in the playroom or in their rooms. That way you can easily straighten up the living room when a surprise guest shows up, and it can look like you actually have one room in your house that the kids don’t use.

photo via inside Avenue

5.   Take out the trash! It takes about 30 seconds to pull out the bag, tie it off, and throw it in the bucket outside.  No guest likes to see an overflowing trashcan, and it will make your house smell so much fresher.

photo via Secret Society NYC

6.     I’m sure you’ve heard that we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time.  There are a ton of things in your closet right now that either don’t fit, don’t match, or don’t look good.  Take 10 minutes to organize this space and getting dressed every morning will be so much easier.  Turn all of your hangers around backwards so that the hook is towards the front of the closet.  As you wear an item of clothing, turn the hanger the correct way.  After the year is over, if you have any hangers that are still backwards, donate those clothes.

Have fun and happy organizing!

Beth Fratt, Making DIY Look Easy

My friend Beth is the consummate DIYer.  She has managed to make a tract home in Las Vegas look custom designed and that is no small feat my friends!  She has what few people have- raw design talent and a certain sort of fearlessness that even I admit does not come easily to me.  I wanted to feature a guest blogger who could share their story of design.  Enjoy!

....After years of making bad design choices, I became frozen in the land of bland.  Five years ago, we bought our first house, and I found myself frustrated by my inability to execute the beautiful rooms I could see in my head.  And then, so out of the blue, it happened.  I was inspired by some kids bedding to complete a room in the house.  My oldest (Chloë, 9) and my youngest (Lilly, 4) share a small bedroom.  It is a hard age gap to decorate for, but since Chloë loves animals, I found the perfect print and went on from there.  The bedding is from Pottery Barn kids, the bed is a space saving loft shipped in from IKEA.  The dresser was Trey’s (my husband) from Jr High that we repainted that fabulous pink, and the bookcase was built by Trey to match.  The locker bins hold a ton of toys and came from Pottery Barn Teen (as did the brown and white polka dot floor pillow).  The beautiful floors are bamboo, and installed by my multi talented hubby:)

Fresh off of my new success last fall, I was FINALLY inspired enough to design our bedroom!  Five years of white walls that I can’t believe we lived with, have been replaced by the most beautifully rich blue.  After all of the work Trey has done on this house, I decided to surprise him by doing the work myself.  So, while he was busy helping the team to open the M, I knew I would have a full three days to get the room ready.  My daughter, Rachel, helped me pick out the paint (and said it looked like a cave when I first started), my friend Danielle helped me paint, and the multi talented Miss Amy helped me hang my curtain rods.  The small couch was delivered Sat afternoon while Amy was working, and we were so excited to see a completed room.  Good thing, to, since Trey called Sat night to tell me he was coming home to sleep.  I wasn’t supposed to see him until the opening at the M the next night, so I thought I had at least one more day!  I put the room back together, threw the bedding back on the bed, and then waited with my heart pounding in my chest!  Fresh off of two straight days on a job sight, my non cussing husband said, “holy sh**!” before the door was even all the way open!  Finally, after 5 years of painting, installing cabinets, crown molding and hardwood floors, after laying tile and building book cases and built ins to my specifications, after sitting and watching my husband work so hard to provide an amazing home for me and our three beautiful girls, I was able to surprise him with a new room!

Of course, last weekend he started to install the new base boards and crown molding:)  His work is never done:)

Images via Trey Fratt

Happy Tuesday

Well, we're off on our camping adventure/family road trip to the wine country for my dear friend Sandra's wedding!  I promise to follow up with some photos for you in the coming week that make you dream of red wine and the red woods. While I'm away you can get to know a few of my friends who will be doing some guest posts for Varnish.  Please be nice to them and post some comments that say things like, "Wow, great post!" and "You are an amazingly talented writer!"  It will make things go much more smoothly when I'm hitting people up next time:)

photography by Corrie Bond

*the exact opposite of what I will look tomorrow morning!

Quiz Results Pretty Please!

If you take the style quiz below let me know what the results are and where you are from in the comment section (tiny little not at the bottom of the post).  I'd love to know what my readers lean towards.  Here are my results!

*For a family home, your style is surprisingly masculine. Perhaps it's to do with all the gadgets you own, though more likely about the choices you make when it comes to colour and functionality of design. Chances are, perhaps, that your busy lifestyle might add an element of unavoidable disorder to an otherwise orderly and disciplined aesthetic.

Design Style Quiz

Here is a fun little online quiz that helps determine your style and then suggests colors and furniture pieces based on the results. Takes about as long as it does to suck down as much caffeine as it takes for you on  Monday morning.

image via My Deco

The Divine Chair Company is-well, DIVINE!

You know what's fun?  Eating a really good popsicle like the one I'm eating right now (pomegranate if you must know) and looking at these AWESOME popsiclish chairs from the The Divine Chair Company.  Now I know what you're thinking, "Hey Amy!  You JUST did a post on recycled chairs-what gives?!"  Listen, when I see something cool I just pass it along okay?  I mean maybe it's a sign you should go get yourself a funky old grandma chair from Salvation Army and have it reupholstered.  Did ya ever think of that?  Huh, did ya?  Maybe I'm your Interior Design palm reader!  

p.s. I originally saw these on a post from The Material Girls just to give credit where credit is due.

*my favorite

Traditional Home's Oceans 3 Showhouse in Mantauk

At first I wasn't sure if I loved Traditional Home's Ocean's 3 Showhouse in Mantauk, NY but the more I stared at these rooms the more I started to appreciate what designer Phillip Gorivan designed.  When I saw this much more subdued and , dare I say, mature looking home it took me a second to let it sink in.  It's brilliant though.  The neutral color palate was to intentionally allow the panoramic views to be the focus.   The nods to the old world and even the vintage rock and roll theme in the library all add to an air of whimsy, intrigue and of luxury.  I'm I fan.

all images via Traditional Home

Garden Accessories from notNeutral

I found an adorable little shop online, notNeutral, through an article I read in Real Simple that I thought you might enjoy....here are some garden accessories I'd like to call my own.

A cool twist on a planter.  Love it with the cool white in this succulent.

I think these garden stakes are so flippin cute!

Nothing more moody and welcoming than a lantern.  There is something about ambient lighting in the yard, isn't there?

I simply can't handle how beautiful and happy my friends look in their engagement photos.  Really- I had to share the love, the creativity behind the lens and the ooshy gooshy joy I feel at seeing this beautiful moment.  Hillary and Jon's photographer is Maribeth Romslo at Red Ribbon Studio and what a wonderful job she did. Happy engagement!

I Stalked Kelly Wearstler

I have purposely tried to muffle my love for Ms. Kelly Wearstler but I just can't keep burying my feelings like this any longer.   She got so big and famous that it was a little embarrassing to admit how much I loved all that texture and pattern and those crazy 70s animal figurines! But whatever, I like what I like and there are no secrets between us here. Not to mention she is just so dang stylish and beautiful.  NO- I'm not a stalker!  But can I tell you that I actually brought a resume to her office in West Hollywood hoping to get a glimpse of her?  Well, in the end I didn't see her but I did get to see her home/office and meet some her of her lovely staff which was a riot for little ol me.  Enough of the madness.  Here are some lovely linens she designed for Sferra that I've got my eye on for myself.

LOVE

LOVE, originally uploaded by Little Nora.

Love Today

Today I have been married for 8 years to the most wonderful man.  In case you were wondering, true love still abounds!

Photo by Kristin Manson via flickr

"love" by Darunia

Material Recovery

I stumbled across this shop called Material Recovery on Etsy and had to share with you guys.  This business is run by two women, Clare Watters and Martha Henry out of San Antonio, Texas. They use antique embroidered textiles from Central Asia and reupholster furniture found in second hand stores to create a unique and beautiful new piece!  Their prices are good and what better way to have a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture.

A Bathroom To Die For!

I have bathrooms on the brain lately.  I hate mine.  And no, that's not exaggeration.  I keep looking at beautiful images and am trying to take a lesson in material, lighting, mood and most of all expense.  I have expensive taste.  Just ask my husband, if give two identical objects I will always prefer the one that costs more.  It comes from working with talented designers (you know who you are!) who have perfectly refined taste and from working on a handful of projects with limitless budgets.  Those were glorious projects where the only thing that mattered was perfection.  BUT.....I have to come back to reality and try to do what any good designer can do-sift through the sea of options out there and come up with a great design within budget.  Here are a few images of those over-the-top, keep dreaming sister bathrooms and a few that are actually within reach!

Ikea Bathroom, via Apartment Therapy

Ikea kitchen cabinets retrofitted for the bath vanity

Modern, earthy and Moroccan-who knew?! Designed by Winder Liebs Architects, image via California Home+Design

Bathroom by David Mast Design, image via California Home+Design

Bathroom designed by Group 41, image via California Home+Design

A fabulous mirrored bathroom by Antonio Martins Design, image via California Home+Design

Peonies Please

Just some pretty peonies to send you off on this gorgeous weekend.......

Minerals, Crystals and Rocks, Oh My!

This past year I have been really drawn to rocks, crystals and minerals for home decor.  I think it's a childhood passion for collecting agate and rock crystals that has been reignited.  There is a beautiful little shop in Laguna Beach that I often pop my head in to drool over beautiful, mysterious, sparkly specimens.  I came across another blog, Belle Maison 23, who had already done a beautiful post on this very topic so some images have been borrowed from her post which sourced Traditional Home.  

via Elle Decor

via Etsy

via Thomas Lavin

via Flickr

via bellemaison23

via bellemaison23

via bellemaison23

via Traditional Home

via bellemaison23

via bellemaison23

via Traditional Home

source unknown

via ABC Carpet & Home

via ABC Carpet & Home

via Elle Decor

Abigail Borg's Wallpaper is Fab.

Check out these gorgeous wallpaper patterns designed by Abigail Borg out of the UK.  She is a 22 year old fresh out of school and she is winning all kinds of awards for her garden inspired patterns.  Keep an eye on her as I'm certain she will be everywhere in about 2 seconds flat.

I Love Palmer Weiss!

Do you know who Palmer Weiss is?  Well then sit up straight class and pay attention!  I am more than a little enamored with this designer.  She lives and works in San Francisco but was raised Charleston, South Carolina-and boy do those Southern roots show!  I'm crazy about her use of stylized motifs and all that color.  Sometimes I wonder if a little traditionalism is lurking underneath my modern facade?  It seems to be creeping out doesn't it?  Well, no matter, I love this designer and the way she makes old look new.  Here is a large sampling of Mrs. Weiss's portfolio.  Have a slice of it with your coffee and have a fabulous week.  Oh, before I forget-congratulations to Bailey Webster for winning that cute little table lamp from last week!  

Mid-Century meets Traditional

Just wanted to share an image that I love with you today.  Also, I am pulling a winner for the table lamp at the end of the day so if you haven't entered than post that comment!  Lastly, I am shooting for the moon and asking all of my readers to please become a subscriber if you already aren't.  My goal is 200 people by then end of this year.  Hook a sister up!

What I love about this are the oh, so hip and now mid-century modern pieces of furniture mixed with the very traditional carved frames.  I also adore the watery color palette.  I am collecting frames like this for my own home as we speak.  Please don't tell my hubby-he'll never approve!  The goal is to frame my boys' artwork making it look gallery worthy!

A Table Lamp Giveaway

Oh happy day, Varnish is having it's first giveaway!   Today, CSN Stores is offering one of you lucky Varnish readers a chance at winning this adorable Bellona table lamp.  They specialize in home office furniture so please pay them a visit.  All you have to do is leave a comment with your name, address and color of choice at the bottom of this post on the actual Varnish blog site (look hard for the word "comment").  I will put your info into some newfangled random name generator thingy on the Internet and poof wala, that darling little lamp will end up on your doorstep.  You won't even have to explain a credit card bill to your husband next month!  Awesome! Anyhow, almost everyone who reads is a friend or family member so don't get mad if my cousin wins okay?  It's all legit, I promise.  Stick with me kids.

Happy Camper

If it's okay with you guys, I'd like to venture into fashion and photography a bit today.  Now, I realize that I am a little bit challenged in this area.  In fact I have been very open about my dream of a visit by Stacy and Clinton.  I do know pretty when I see it though!  Again, I have a weird way of arriving at a topic of discussion with you all but try to follow.  We're camping this month with the kiddos for the first time ever and we're really excited about it.  We'll be making our way to Northern California for a good friend's wedding and thought we would be crazy not to go sleep under the stars and the Redwoods.  So, in my search for pretty camping shots I came across number one, some great images from one of my favorite photographers, Corrie Bond, a super cool blog, iamstyle-ish AND a great line of clothing, lily+jae!  Whew!  That's a lot for a Tuesday afternoon but here we go.

Pretty Things

There is something about Mondays that I love.  I feel energized and ready to take on the world. I know.  I'm a freak.  This afternoon I thought I would share some of my favorite finds as of late. They have no rhyme or meaning but since when does inspiration have to make sense?  

Bubble Chandelier by Jean Pelle, via Etsy

To-die for- floating shelf via Martha Stewart Living

Hand painted wall mural/headboard, via Metropolitan Home

"Stella" felt rug by Michelle Mason

Modern Kids Rooms, part ii

This is day two of featuring great kids rooms.  I feel inspired to, at a bare minimum, to get in there, clean out and purge.  A friend of mine lamented with me that we spend way more money on our kids but one can hardly help it with all of the great design going on for children these days. So go through those space bags and old toys, leaving only what is going to make their little worlds more healthy and beautiful.  There is nothing worse than hording a bunch of stuff to keep kids out of their rooms and Lord knows they could spend a little more time playing and a little less time watching TV (educational of course darling!) 

Images via DecorPad & Elle Decor.

Modern Kid Rooms

I've had few friends ask for a post on inspirational kids rooms. There were so many to choose from that I think I'll give special attention to the theme for the rest of the week. A child's room is a wonderful opportunity to get playful, whimsical and just get away with a lot more. Noone is judging your child's bedroom so it may be approached with a bit more abandon, which I think is something we should try to do a little bit more in the rest of our homes. I'm guilty as sin when it comes to "playing it safe" but to quote Vern Yip, "playing it safe it won't win you this competition!" Be bold with your interiors and be bold with your life! All images via Elle Decor.

Green Piano

 I love this green painted piano!  What a fun way to bring music and design together.  Also proof that you can paint ANY piece of furniture a funky color and bring it back to life.  I stole an old piece of furniture out of my neighbor's trash pile and have every intention of making it awesome.  I'd love to know if you guys have any DIY paint projects that you'd like to share.  If you do, email me and I'll feature your creative genius on this here little blog.  Shout it from the rooftops people, "we're as good as any of those yahoos on Top Designer!"

Meet Jennifer Ramos at MadeByGirl

Happy Friday!  I always like to leave you with something extra pretty to look at over the weekend so here are a few of my favorite prints from Jennifer Ramos over at MadeByGirl. Jennifer is a Las Vegas local (woo hoo!) who has made a name for herself within the design and blogging community. She is all about girl power, going green, being creative and pushing yourself to follow your inner artist!  Please check out her blog or her website for some must have artwork.  

Glamorous (and Girly) Home Office

My friend Amanda asked me to help "glam up" her home office which led me to this photo.  I think that many of us are not in the position to completely remodel to our heart's content but there is something about a fresh color (it was hot pink on the ceiling for Amanda) and some new accessories that can really breathe new life into your office.  If you're anything like me, you spend an obscene amount of time on the computer, doing bills (okay not so much me) and really just becoming more and more a part of the cyber world.  Why not have a pretty little spot where you can do your thing?  I love the fact that the small closet is being utilized as a desk area even leaving the room for a "conference" table and a disco ball.  The gray, pink and white color scheme leaves ya wanting for more!

via decorpad

Color Coding Your Bookshelves is Neat!

Good morning people.  I have to admit to you all that I'm about to hit the road for a little mini-vacay in Laguna Beach.  Don't be a hater!  To gear you up for the week, I'd like to share a post from Maria Killam's blog, Colour Me Happy.  In fact, this post was actually written by guest blogger Sara, from Sara Says Awesome.  Either way take the time to visit those blogsites. Maria offers wonderful, not mention, expert color advice and Sara will make you laugh your arse off. I'm kind of bonkers for this color coding we're seeing on bookshelves everywhere and am now looking at books for the color of their jackets rather than their content!  Don't be shocked if I have some interesting reading material happening in my living room soon.  Anyhow, enjoy the eye candy and consider this a fun new way to dress up those boring shelves!

Sarah Singh Illustrations

I would like to send you all off on a beautiful summer weekend with some equally beautiful illustrations by artist Sarah Singh.  Her work is colorful, feminine and full of sass.  Let that be your cue for the day.

Desert Living Done Right

I ran across some beautiful images on Architectural Digest and thought I'd share with all of you who may be desert rats like me.  These are all homes designed specifically for a desert climate....for truly enjoying, not just tolerating.  Imagine that!

Producer Jerry Weintraub's vacation in home in... Palm Springs (I think!)

Architect Antoine Predock designed this home in Santa Fe

Donna Livingston designed this home for indoor/outdoor living in Indian Wells, CA

Marmol Radziner was commissioned to design this prefab home for a couple's vacation home in Colorado

Sam A. Cardella with Interactive Design Corp. designed this home in Rancho Mirage, CA

Architect Steven Ehrlich designed this fabulous home in Dubai.  And you think it's hot in Vegas!?

Edward. M Jones designed this custom home in Scottsdale.  It's a bit much for me but the desert landscaping is beautiful.  Who says cactus is ugly!

The Coolest Typography EVER!

I came across this ad campaign for the Houston based furnishings store High Fashion Home and had to share it with you all.  The concept is by Ad Agency, The Butler Bros. and the photography is by Adam Voorhes.  A furniture alphabet?  It's perfection!

Zebra Print is Always in My Friends

Why is zebra print so freakin cool?  Well, for starters it's one of the most graphic patterns in nature and every once in a while we need to be reminded that God is the best designer of all. There is something about the black and white that is so timeless, sexy and natural all at once.  Go figure but it is.  It's grounding.  And the best part is you can get away with that being the only print you use in your entire house and it works.  Zebra print is modern and traditional.  It goes with every color scheme.  I have a few clients who I have and am currently hoping will "go for it." So, in an effort to find some inspiring images for them, I managed to find that Elle Decor shares my passion for this African animal print.  They have it everywhere and so should you.

all images featured in Elle Decor via flickr

The Gorman Residence in The Ridges is to Die for!

Today I am happy to share the home of some friends of ours, Geoff and Shelley Gorman.  Shelley is a designer who realized her dream of designing her family's home in the Ridges.  I am thrilled she is giving us a sneak peak into their beautiful diggs.  We've had the luck of attending two great parties in their home which prompted me to get down on my hands and knees to beg Shelley for photos to share with you!  Enjoy!

Front elevation

Front elevation

Backyard

View into backyard

Master Bedroom

Family/Game Room

Grotto

View of waterfall in grotto

Dining Room

Living Room

Daughter's Bedroom

Daughter's Bath

Son's Bedroom

Movie Room

Interview with Shelley

Varnish-  You went to U of A in Tucson, which also happens to be my hubby’s Alma mater.  You also share a degree in Architecture.  Where did that passion for design come from?

SG- I have always been a detailed observer of colors and the built environment.  At age 16, I was given the opportunity to redesign my shoebox of a room in a suburban Chicago row house.  I chose a white palette combined with punches of color filled Merrimekko fabrics.  Growing up my parents took us on trips to explore our heritage in Norway and Finland.  My exposure to downtown Chicago and Europe at a young age had a huge impact on my love for the built environment.  

Varnish-  What was it like designing a home for you and your family and will you ever do it again?

SG- Designing a place tailor made for our family and the way we live was a dream come true.  I had designed commercial spaces in the past for clients but there is something amazing about getting to move in to your creation and experience it on a regular basis. I would do it again in a heartbeat as long as Elegant Homes was our contractor again.  It was so great to be working hand in hand with such a professional and honest team.  

Varnish- What was the most enjoyable part of that process?

SG- I would have to say watching it rise out of the earth day by day and enjoying the many phases and layers of the building process.  It has also been quite a high to watch my husband and kids enjoy the house – they each have their favorite hangouts - the movie room is my retreat!  It has also been amazing to completely furnish and finish off all the rooms in the house so soon after moving in.  I really enjoy being a decorator and having my own home “done” and off my to do list has allowed be to focus completely on my clients needs.  Having a dedicated home office with space for all my tools of the trade is a huge blessing and allows me to be ultra productive. 

Varnish- What was the least enjoyable? 

SG- I would have to say the time it took away from my young family, but my husband is so supportive and such a great dad that it worked out just fine.  

Varnish- Lastly, are there any pearls of wisdom you could share with someone considering designing their own home?

SG- If you are not in the hands of a good builder I think this process could be quite painful.  Decision making for me was easy as I had done it before in my profession, but I think it has got to be tough for someone without a design background.  My husband had given me a list of 9 things he wanted out of the house and I knew as long as those goals were being met I was golden.  He also had the confidence that I was going to be able to stay on budget and keep things moving along by making decisions in a timely manner.  I would strongly advise couples to seek professional guidance and not try to go it alone when building a home.  Architects and decorators are problem solvers that look at all parts of the equation keeping the budget and timeline in mind.  They will save you money and keep your blood pressure down – it is a long process and there is a huge learning curve. They are also a mediator that can keep things running smoothly between all parties involved.  

*Also, if you are interested, the Gorman Residence is on the market.  It is 6000 sf and is listed at 2,825,000 and is the third lowest priced home on the market in The Ridges. For additional information you can contact Ken Lowman at Luxury Homes of Las Vegas.

Famous red, white and blue decor

It's almost time to celebrate Independence day and with that thought in mind (along with burgers, swimming, relaxing and burning my fingers lighting sparklers) here are some famous shots you'll be sure to recognize!  

Happy 4th of July to you all!

The Blue Room, redecorated by Jackie Kennedy

President Obama reading in the Red Room

or...if you prefer to see a Reagan in the Red Room instead....we're bi-partisan here folks!

The most famous white house of all...

and for those of you who don't already know this, First Lady Michelle Obama commissioned designer Michael Smith of Southern California to design the East Wing for the Obama family.  You can read a great article about her pick for the sweetest design gig of all in the LA Times here.

via the chicagoist

Custom Hardware

In Saturday's issue of the RJ, there was an article featuring custom hardware and tile by a company called Metaltec.  They have used innovative new technology that is essentially 3-d printing onto metal, enabling an endless way to design and customize hardware.  I especially love the oceanic motifs.

all images via metaltec

My Rug Company Crush

Okay, I am so obsessed with The Rug Company right now!  I am working with a client who suggested we take a look for an entry rug and now I. AM. IN. LOVE!  I am about to throw a ridiculous amount of beautiful images at you but I feel strongly that Tuesday mornings need as much enthusiasm we can muster.

This Peacock design by Matthew Williamson is my all time favorite!  

image via vogue.com

Las Vegas Hotel Furniture Liquidator Mystery

You know how sometimes you're just curious about random stuff?  Like, what would one of those sexy one piece bathing suits look like on me or what is it like to drive a smart car or how about what would happen if I actually stuck to my diet?  Well, I have a long list of things I just want to get around to investigating and one of them I have officially checked off my list.  I FINALLY went to one of those huge local warehouses filled with liquidated hotel furniture.  My heart fluttered a little bit at the idea of finding a really great deal.  It was like the world's biggest garage sale only minus grandma's old kitchen towels and busted up old TVs.  Oh no wait, those were there....I digress.  Anyhow, I was harassed a little bit by a sales woman who was very straight forward about the fact that she worked on commission and it was quite dark in the back of the warehouse, however, it was a gold mine of old funky furniture begging to be painted some bright cheery color and put in a kids play room. At first blush the prices were very high but after one conversation with the manager he lowered the price on one beautiful mirrored bar by about 75% without me even asking!  So if you're feeling adventurous go with a truck and your best Tijuana bargaining skills.  If you are lazy, check out the website because it's actually great!  It ain't much to look at but they have every item photographed and categorized nicely.  Just please, please stay away from the bedspread section.  I'd need to Lysol my computer just browsing it.  Have fun!

Modern Outdoor Furniture to Love, Part iii

The last installment of modern outdoor furniture is fresh out the oven for you!  Most of it from Dedon, one is from emu and the patio image is from Sunset Magazine.  Please enjoy and have a beautiful weekend.  I'm off to do a surprise makeover of my niece's bedroom.  Pics to follow.

Immaculate Infatuation, The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie in NYC

Just have to point everyone to today's story on Immaculate Infatuation.  The review on chocolate chip cookies in NYC is great but the video is priceless!

p.s. If you have ever loved me (or hated me) for even a second will you please put your itty bitty email address in the box on the left to become a subscriber?  Apparently it's the ticket to making it HUGE in the blogging world :)

photo via flickr

Modern Outdoor Furniture to Love, Part ii

Dayang outdoor wicker swinging chair from Locsin International for Neoteric Home™.  What a perfect spot to catch up on all those summer novels.  Twighlight?  Guilty!

The Pod from La Fete is a sculptural piece of outdoor seating that is not only exciting to look at but comfortable as well.  You know this could generate a good party story or two.

Designer Angie Thornbury designed the Crib Bed for La Fete.  Mmmm...nothing like a good snooze outside, especially if it's in front of YOUR CASTLE!

Designer Angie Thornbury designed the Crib and Lean Collection for La Fete.  This outdoor furniture is extremely lightweight and durable.  It's comfy too and not to mention sexy.

The Charmaine Bench designed by Haziza comes in an assortment of colorful acrylics. My favorite!

Outdoor Furniture to Love

Well, it just got hot folks!  We have had an unusually cool June and for that I am grateful but in a weird way I'm okay with the heat.  I suppose when you choose to live in the desert long enough you must in some sick way enjoy the blistering heat of summer.  So, in honor of the swelter I am going to feature a selection of great outdoor furniture for the rest of the week.  Most of it is cutting edge in materiality and modernity but all of it is just plain cool or should I say hot!

This line comes from Studio JSPR and is called "Plastic Fantastic."  All of these traditional pieces have been coated in Soft Skin, which is a durable and super soft rubber coating that can withstand the elements.  The colors are bright and reminiscent of Miami Beach.  You can check out more designs at Studio JASPR here.

Staircases with Drama

Okay, random Monday post but I wanted to share a couple of great stairways with you from Metropolitan Home.  And sadly, against my best efforts of rummaging through my husband's meticulous collection of Dwell, I cannot manage to find a beautiful shot of a staircase in someone's home where the couple hand wrote excerpts from a love letter written by the owner's grandfather to her grandmother.  It is written out on the treads over three flights in what looks like black marker.  It is beyond the idea of thoughtful design and brings an intimate glimpse of a family's heritage into plain sight.  The deeper metaphor of daily walking in love with your family is beautiful. In a much more shallow sense I adore the graphic element going on with the runner and the risers in the images below.  Stairways really are a forgotten space in a lot of homes.  I think it's great area to get bold with color, pattern and artwork since you are just passing through.  It doesn't need to be a restful space, I would actually argue the opposite.  I would opt for an energizing design...especially when you need all the help you can get making it up the stairs!  Go for some drama.  Please.  Someone.

Joseph Eichler

In honor of my husband who is in a three way tie for world's greatest father with my dad and father-in-law, I wanted to do a post on his favorite Builder, Joseph Eichler.  I couldn't have written anything more interesting than the bio I found on kevo.com so please enjoy learning about one of America's most brilliant contributors to the residential architecture landscape to date (which happens to also include my hubby)!  I promise that you won't regret the time you spend reading.

Image via EichlerLife.com

Image via EichlerLife.com

Image via eichlersocal.com

3 images above via eichlersocal.com

"Bring modern architecture to the masses? Was this a crazy idea or a stroke of genius? Frank Lloyd Wright designed a Usonian House but it never got off the ground. “By the mid-1940s, Joseph Eichler had become intrigued by modernist design and in particular one of the creations of Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who had designed the Bazett house (Hillsborough, California), a rented home for Eichler during World War II. Triggered by Wright's inspiration, Eichler began to fashion a vision short on home-building acumen, yet long on modernist aesthetics and his own iron will. Beginning in 1949, when it was still uncommon to find merchant builders engaged with architects, Eichler became engrossed with building communities of homes characterized by both flair and affordability.”  One of his smartest moves was choosing great architects of the day to help him. Eichler recruited the San Francisco firm of Anshen & Allen, then Jones & Emmons (A. Quincy Jones), later Claude Oakland.  Post and beam mid century moderns started to be built with indoor-outdoor living, walls of glass, atriums, and radiant-heat floors which were copper pipes filled with hot water.  Eichler was also known to be very charming and a man of high character and wonderful humor. He avoided potential shortcuts that would compromise his vision of bringing quality modern architecture to the masses at affordable prices. "By making construction easier and less costly," added Ned, "the architectural principles my father had come to hold dear would have been violated."  A strong proponent of fair housing and deeply opposed to racial discrimination, the liberal Eichler was the first large, tract builder to sell to minorities, and even built a home on his own lot for an NAACP leader. Joe resigned from the National Association of Home Builders in 1958 in protest of racial discrimination policies and, according to reports from long-time Eichler owners, offered to buy back homes from those who had trouble accepting their neighbors.  "If, as you claim, this will destroy property values," Joe once told some disgruntled Eichler owners, "I could lose millions...You should be ashamed of yourselves for wasting your time and mine with such pettiness."  Eichler Homes, Inc. built nearly 11,000 single-family homes in California. Eichlers can be found in Marin county, the East Bay, San Mateo county, Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento. Three small communities of Eichlers in Southern California stand in Orange, Thousand Oaks, and Granada Hills. In addition, there are three Eichler-built residences in New York state. Eichler was an architectural pioneer and his homes are more popular today then ever. Joe Eichler died in 1974 at age 73. His legacy is of a tenacious visionary that took the necessary action to get around the roadblocks and even his own shortcomings. "Before and even after 1947," recalled Joe's son, Ned Eichler, "my father never held a hammer, a saw, or a wrench in his hand. Still, he became a master builder."

Image via designsponge.com

Pretty Entry Vignette

Just a pretty little vignette to get you through the last work hour of the day.  Don't worry tomorrow is Friday!

image source unknown

Abigail McGill, Guest Blogger

Drumroll please.......my first guest blogger is Abigail McGill and I promise that she is as talented and sweet as she is gawgous!  We worked together for a very short period of time but I knew that I would like her when she strutted into the office wearing a pink pencil skirt and red heels.  

A little about me: I have been the principal designer of Studio Three Eighteen in Los Angeles for 2 years, but my husband and I are relocating to the woods of New Jersey in July. I'm looking forward to getting out of the smog and bumper-to-bumper, and into restoring some old barns, gardening, and wandering along the banks of our creek with my bullmastiff, Delilah.

Maybe my inner Pisces is just anxious to be released this time of year, but now that LA’s “June gloom” is beginning to wear off, I’m itching to get out from underneath this roof and into the water! And what’s almost as good as going for a saltwater dip off your oceanfront property (I’ll keep dreaming…)? Plunging into the serene oasis of a refreshing pool.  I love exteriors just as much as I do interiors, and am careful to always consider the environment surrounding a space before diving into design. These pools are some of my favorites, a few of which I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy, others only in my dreams…

Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, CA

Four Seasons Kuda Hurra, Maldives

Private Residence, Los Angeles, CA. Alla Kazovsky Architects

Baan Soi Klang, Bangkok, Thailand

Private residence, Sag Harbor, New York

Claire Penn's Photography is the Bomb Baby!

Today I am so happy to introduce you to Claire Penn's Photography.  I ran across her work on Flickr and happily she is allowing me to post some of her gorgeous images.  She hails from a little country called England and like so many pop culture phenomenons these days you aren't cool unless you have a Brit on hand.  She's mine, go get your own!  So sit back, slack on your current assignment and waste the afternoon drinking coffee and looking at her work!  Also, please do visit her at, http://www.flickr.com/photos/clairepenn/ or go buy a print at http://www.redbubble.com/people/claireyhairey.  She'll love you for it.

Shelves

Happy Monday!  Mondays are for getting back to work and that makes me dream of someday having a beautiful office filled with beautiful design books. If you are lucky enough to have some built-ins, try backing them with wallpaper or painting them a vibrant color.  It's also fun to group your books by color, it will make a big bold statement. On the other hand you could wrap them all in white or brown paper (a la 3rd grade) for a clean minimal look. I also love it when artwork or lamps are mounted to the moulding.  Impractical you say?  Oh no, it's fabulous.  Now get back to work!