Design Inspiration :: My Fascination with Doors

Barbara Barry

William T Baker, Atlanta

Portella Doors

Andrea Brooks Interiors 

Jones Pierce Architects

Daniel Cuevas

There is something about doors I find wildly intriguing!  So much so, I have an entire Pinterest board dedicated to the THE DOOR!  I am fascinated by not just the color but the design details such as the moldings, the glass, the hardware...even the hinges!  When I am traveling, I find myself taking pictures of random entrances and wondering what magical secrets must exist behind them.  In fact, the significance of the door shows up not just in design but in literary references, historical references, and even biblical references.

It is one of the first things someone might notice when they arrive at your house.  A door is not just a door... a barrier to an entrance....it is the opening into your your most intimate setting... so it is an important element of your house design that should not be overlooked. Be it in a tiny dark apartment hallway or a grand estate, your front door is a reflection of you and your style.

What does your door say about you? Is it clean? Is it freshly painted? Is it a color that is pleasing and enhances the front entrance? Does it have a beautifully polished knob? How does it greet you when YOU first walk up?

Next time you enter you home, take it all in.  I bet you will be surprised with what you see.

                                                    xx,

The Lost Art :: Courtesy

THE ART OF COURTESY

The art of courtesy is the practice of the Golden Rule in little things.

It is being courteous even to those who are discourteous.  It is striving to avoid a reaction of irritation in spite of the most severe provocation.  It is remembering that a "soft answer turneth away wrath."

It is coming forward to meet others with warmth, graciousness and a hospitable spirit.

It is using shock-absorber words to smooth the jars and jolts of daily living;  words that express kindness, consideration, and gratitude.

It is the wisdom to know that we should love before we think and think before we act.

It is putting people at ease, helping them to relax.  It is recognizing the worth of the individual, protecting his dignity, inspiring him to think well of himself.

It is the sympathic ear and the understanding heart.

It is going the second mile to make things pleasant for others.

It is appreciating what others do for us and letting them know it.

It is being big enough to take the blame for our mistakes and being quick to ask forgiveness for our blunders. 

It is recognizing the universal power of a smile; for a sincere smile is courtesy in every language and puts a glow in the heart everywhere on earth.

it is emphasizing the gentle in gentleman. 

It is endeavoring to live with some nobility that we may prove that the age of chivalry isn't dead.

It is keeping constantly in mind the words of Emerson: " Life is not so short but that there is always time enough for courtesy."

 - WIlferd Peterson

Food for thought from one of my favorite authors.  Happy Friday!!  

xx, 

Winter Inspiration :: Fresh Cut Flowers

I love the month of February... It is a short, happy month that conjures images of love, chocolate and all things pink.  However, despite those "happy" thoughts the reality is most days are typically cold and grey... It is when we start thinking Spring cannot come fast enough.  But let's not wish away the days... after all, how is already February??? Instead, let's look for little elements of beauty to add our grey days to help get us through the winter.

One of the design elements I try to almost always have in my house is fresh cut flowers.  I place them in the entry hall, the kitchen, my desk and sometime my bedroom... places where I will appreciate their beauty most. These are not crazy, expensive arrangements from the the florist... they are literally from the the grocery store, simply arranged in small vases.  (I seem to gravitate to the pink ones...tulips, roses, peonies... regardless of the time of year).  I find flowers to be a simple yet elegant reminder of the of complexities of nature and there is not a single design accessory I love more!

Should you find yourself needing a little winter "pick-me-up", bring a bright flower arrangement into your space.  I think you will appreciate and enjoy the beauty it adds to your surroundings.


                                                        xx,

The Lost Art of Taking Tea

I have always loved to have tea.... I think it is something I inherited from my mother.  She loves a good afternoon of tea but a FANCY afternoon out was typically saved for a birthday or special occasion.  However, when I lived in London... the art of taking tea became a regular occurrence both with my friends and my girls.... It is just such a civilized way to spend the afternoon.

Many times I will have tea and scones with cream and berries for my children after school. It is a beautiful way to slow down from the hustle and bustle of the day before the afternoon and evening activities begin.

Here is a little "tea knowledge" I learned while living overseas...

• "Taking Tea" refers to the ceremonial aspects of this glorious afternoon activity
• Did you know "TEA" does not just refer to the drink (this is where my love of champagne gets to come in...) but rather the MEAL of tea?
• There are 2 types of TEA... Afternoon or "low tea" & "high tea"
• Afternoon Tea is taken between 2 and 5 p.m. and is usually a light snack with sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones.
• High Tea is taken between 5 - 7 p.m. and is considered an early evening meal

I'd like to invite you to find an afternoon to enjoy The Lost of Taking Tea.... I think you will find it to be one of the most enjoyable and rejuvenating respites you have had in a while.

                                                                xx,                

all photos property of Tiffany Jones Interiors

Design Trend :: Deep Dark Walls

Elle Decor

Jan Showers

Daniel Cuevas

Recently, I have been quite drawn to the darker walled rooms... whether it be a lacquered paint or a very dark wood paneling.  It is not anything I have ever designed in my own house and have only once or twice recommended to a client... But there is something lately that keeps drawing me in.  A coziness... a richness... a sophistication, perhaps.  Maybe all these "clean spaces" of late are leaving me wanting more.

I really like the old world glamour it adds to a room. Making a bold design decision such as this is not for the faint of heart...it shows you have conviction in your design style... and it definitely exudes a personal confidence, as well.

Apartment Therapy

Alicia B. Designs

Sasha Adler via Elle

Garrow Kedigian

I am smitten... and cannot think of where to execute this fast enough!

What are your thoughts on the darker walls?  Yes or No??

xx,