Before & After: Back Porch Transformation

Before:  Whittington Design Studio  came to the rescue of a client gearing up for a party with a complete transformation of their back porch which had functioned merely as a walk-through out to the pool.  I can identify with this dilemma - disparate pieces without a unifying theme and presence.

After!:    They designed a custom-built, simulated barn door to create a fabulous focal point and dose of strong color.  The wicker pieces were also painted navy to tie-in with the door and the bench a punchy green for a pretty contrast.  Artwork from the client's storage room was hung.  Look at how amazing the fading painted brick looks now.

Green folding chairs were added to tie in the color scheme to the other side of the space and a console table provides an unobstructed view.  The floors were painted blue and area rugs added for texture and interest.

For more images of the backyard transformation and the party reveal, head here.

Isabel Lopez Quesada - Stunning Work

I am blown away by the amazing talent of Isabel Lopez Quesada.  Her portfolio is extensive and all of it's incredible.  Here are just a few images to inspire,  many, many more images here.  I really could meditate in front of these all day.  Hope you have a great weekend. Michele

Curious About What's Behind These Doors? Find out 9/28

How often have you walked by a beautiful home with the hope that you could see what's inside?
If you're in the DC area and love the homes of Old Town Alexandria, Saturday is your day.

The 72nd Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour takes place Saturday September 28, 2013, 10 am - 3pm.

 A Glimpse of What's To Come...

A Federal Style house,built in 1818,
A 20th century home, placed in the footprint of the Federal era (1790-1800)
A late 18th-century colonial
The Old Town Theatre  built in 1914

Tickets, Transportation and Parking Advanced tickets can be purchased online for $35 until noon on September 26th or at the Ramsey House Visitors’ Center (221 King Street) and at the Twig Thrift Shop (106 N. Columbus Street). On-the-day-of-the-tour tickets will be sold at the Ramsey House (221 King Street) and Historic Christ Church Parish Hall (118 N. Columbus Street) for $40.

The City of Alexandria runs a courtesy trolley between the King Street Metro and the waterfront. The trolley stop for The Twig Thrift Shop and Christ Church is at the corner of King and Columbus Streets. All day parking is available at the garage at 117 N. Alfred St., and other nearby public parking facilities. Follow on Twitter at #2013HomesTour

Dallas & the fabulous Blueprint

A short work trip to Dallas left me just enough time to squeeze in a visit to the fabulous Blueprint.  Design stores are all the better when housed in a former home and the proprietors of Blueprint take full advantage of the two floors of this 1920's house.  You feel like you're walking through a light filled home with the added bonus that the gorgeous furnishings, art and accessories are for sale.

This was my favorite piece.  The brass is the perfect patina and I love the detailing.

Beautiful pillows with pretty, clear colors.

This throw makes me realize I want some stripes in my house.

The upstairs stairwell full of art and character.  Do you see the lion?

Lucky for me this was my 3rd trip here. As always, if you're in Dallas be sure to visit Blueprint.

A Smart Narrow Bathroom

There was a lot of inspiration in the narrow bathroom of the Hotel Allegro, where I stayed for one of my there nights in Chicago last week.  From the wall to the tub there were 4 floor tiles - so I'm guessing 4 ft.  The narrow marble counter with sink had plenty of room and the angled edge made for a more spacious feeling.

The mirror ran almost the full length above the sink.

Plenty of storage space below too.

Stacked subway tile didn't compete with the geometric wallpaper.  Loved the pretty blue ceiling too.

A small profile light with simple lines and just enough space for a makeup mirror tucked in the corner.

One other note, the door to the bathroom was a split door that opened out, like small, solid french doors.

Everyone Can Join the ORC Fun!

If you've been anywhere near the design blogging world you know about the One Room Challenge - where bloggers invited by its creator, Linda, of the fab blog Calling it Home inspire and motivate us as they transform 1 room over 6 weeks.  The next ORC starts Wednesday, October 2nd with a fun, new twist - YOU can join in on the fun too!  

Starting Thursday, October 3rd on Calling it Home there will be a linking One Room Challenge for everyone who'd like to participate.  It will be every Thursday for 6 weeks and you can read all about the details and get your ORC button here.  Can't wait!

Bethany of Powell Brower at Home's fab One Room Challenge master bedroom reveal in 2012.

Well, Hello Savannah!

If you read this blog, you know that on occasion I search out Charleston homes to feature.  Well, I happened upon one from Savannah that's gorgeous. I've never been to Savannah and hope to visit in the next year or two.  Have you been?  Images from this beautiful home, currently for sale,  here.

Sep 21st - Classic Chic: Interior Design for Living Artfully (At Home with Marjorie Merriweather Post)

If you're in the DC area, here's an event you should know about.
A study day, Classic Chic:  Interior Design for Living Artfully, will explore French-inspired interior design and the 20th century’s great designers September 21 from 10:30 am - 4:00 pm at the renowned DC treasure, the Hillwood Estate, Musuem and Gardens.

Inspired by the special exhibition, Living Artfully: At Home with Marjorie Merriweather Post, which follows Post’s flawless style of living across three grand homes, Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens presents Classic Chic: Interior Design for Living Artfully,

The day will be led by Hillwood curators Liana Paredes and Estella Chung, who will discuss Marjorie Post’s Hillwood and the antique and design firms French & Co. and McMillen Inc., whose opulent French interiors combined with modern amenities made it one of Washington’s most memorable homes when Marjorie Merriweather Post lived and entertained there in the 1950s and 60s.

Next, James Archer Abbott of Evergreen Museum and Library, who has published extensively on the topic, will highlight the work of global design house Maison Jansen. Following a lunch break and opportunity to look closely at the Hillwood Mansion interiors with the design experts, esteemed New York interior designer Michael Simon will discuss the importance of incorporating history and a knowledge of the past into contemporary design, much as Post did at Hillwood.
Lastly, Chung will moderate a round table discussion with the speakers about mid-century design classics and contemporary applications.

The cost for the study day is $65, $40 for Hillwood members, and $20 for students. Participants are welcome to bring their own brown-bag lunch or to pre-order from the Hillwood Café. Lunch is $20 and includes a sandwich (choice of ham, turkey or veggie), salad, cookie, and drink. Lunch orders can be placed when you call to make your reservations for the program. Call (202) 686-5807.

What: Classic Chic: Interior Design for Living Artfully When: Saturday, September 21 10:30 am to 4 p.m.

Where: Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW, Washington, DC. Metro: Red Line VanNess/UDC (20 minute walk)

Price: $65, 40 for Hillwood members, $20 for students
Reservations:  Hillwood Museum or call (202) 686-5807 for reservations information: and more information.