Interior Decorating Ideas Kitchen

Extraordinary Home: Part 2

<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2XVMMYBoMSulhTYArpc546Y4eiwzWSo2jAYKLUEZPSz4c7efMmGtIvRpcJK5zAheD50FwTnIyj9j1osDP0VNe_hNISEGUjxRL1rd8A5-dPRKTDD_zQeM73DYBrZfh9G6CHiyCQmw0eWS/s1600/2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455015022983037490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2XVMMYBoMSulhTYArpc546Y4eiwzWSo2jAYKLUEZPSz4c7efMmGtIvRpcJK5zAheD50FwTnIyj9j1osDP0VNe_hNISEGUjxRL1rd8A5-dPRKTDD_zQeM73DYBrZfh9G6CHiyCQmw0eWS/s640/2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> There is so much to share from this home and the gardens that I plan to do it in installments. I think of this house like a wonderful confection - to be savored a bit at a time. At this welcoming back entry you are greeted by a pink heart enscribed with the word Love. The door is wonderfully framed by the shutters and the arch. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguWHJLceAbS3zNNRW7KafN7LVkGaJ0jFyY6zXlQh7muMTuCz7WQf-wKrWfLnDJ3MNsMkbpD4TyNyhOI7hWE4pQIAtuB4tlj-Sc_3xCNVt8POsVHKo-q3AAdoRN6Tu7xZSbBINk2-LhyQ3/s1600/4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014941584645266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguWHJLceAbS3zNNRW7KafN7LVkGaJ0jFyY6zXlQh7muMTuCz7WQf-wKrWfLnDJ3MNsMkbpD4TyNyhOI7hWE4pQIAtuB4tlj-Sc_3xCNVt8POsVHKo-q3AAdoRN6Tu7xZSbBINk2-LhyQ3/s400/4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Umbrellas and hats to your right... <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCHCdPPgw24_LMlU42xRpUKjndBuKOkYdyWelIvCHuaGP7hP4QKnAvOKhAXuf4MlYSCaafpySimKfgQldTxat7NBinH9Sf5aFnZgUyUnee5d6RfIUjDkMGL5OvlMv5Ze4OLTq7bw2VbUq/s1600/13.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455016569320090882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCHCdPPgw24_LMlU42xRpUKjndBuKOkYdyWelIvCHuaGP7hP4QKnAvOKhAXuf4MlYSCaafpySimKfgQldTxat7NBinH9Sf5aFnZgUyUnee5d6RfIUjDkMGL5OvlMv5Ze4OLTq7bw2VbUq/s400/13.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 263px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> and croquet mallets and jump ropes to your left! <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwM8u4hl1YRWNP83STVW2duxl4rvx_OaA7hX8h2ShnEfXq5NLP2Bldi_IJ6TRF8GU8Lk5jJ68QoCoamq51r3cmXXNoYr0QBACoBUK3fDC_pbhHZnjhghJ11Rt2GbhZRC1zi1t29tCxuw26/s1600/7.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014714719638850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwM8u4hl1YRWNP83STVW2duxl4rvx_OaA7hX8h2ShnEfXq5NLP2Bldi_IJ6TRF8GU8Lk5jJ68QoCoamq51r3cmXXNoYr0QBACoBUK3fDC_pbhHZnjhghJ11Rt2GbhZRC1zi1t29tCxuw26/s400/7.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A kitchen counterscape of lovely things. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu1-hfRP-UWx_0n8qD6ulg3Ch34SEVZoHINXyTi_FsbPBDh_Z2g5G5jKS6GRC0A0lSMx1H4VT5sIJDK0uGpV8ppuPcdN6vZseXBZZTa11ekX4DQy1xArPSFUJxwkqnsQ9qu07AcHXeX2nx/s1600/8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014629287336514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu1-hfRP-UWx_0n8qD6ulg3Ch34SEVZoHINXyTi_FsbPBDh_Z2g5G5jKS6GRC0A0lSMx1H4VT5sIJDK0uGpV8ppuPcdN6vZseXBZZTa11ekX4DQy1xArPSFUJxwkqnsQ9qu07AcHXeX2nx/s400/8.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The gorgeous porcelain box holds tea. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVckpv-ie6dstKEiWoDFNEwDjxkEvl3_c3O1Y4Ayd0MDSkxdI4GM-CfcXoL4sZ0y3aPKRDqXdDK261STxqmfmoJ9yKaOAH3OoJEA3fwvxxSfJDIQWKjhaSXlVmbEmFiR2lOLb8oRzyvdLW/s1600/12.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014540159908354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVckpv-ie6dstKEiWoDFNEwDjxkEvl3_c3O1Y4Ayd0MDSkxdI4GM-CfcXoL4sZ0y3aPKRDqXdDK261STxqmfmoJ9yKaOAH3OoJEA3fwvxxSfJDIQWKjhaSXlVmbEmFiR2lOLb8oRzyvdLW/s640/12.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A microwave and wall oven marries with the art on this wall. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDG7rYk7sVBAttzGTigC2eHZ__UCKGOpwqdu-orFzJX5J3UpYVpdCmVOvrOGHm-bp27fUk4AayYdIoPNeuzEbtYduMJmzLX-JYPsIG4ljVDgSToPTbbr27JavgMUGRIsTLp5dHbCGtdkn-/s1600/11.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014398844059458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDG7rYk7sVBAttzGTigC2eHZ__UCKGOpwqdu-orFzJX5J3UpYVpdCmVOvrOGHm-bp27fUk4AayYdIoPNeuzEbtYduMJmzLX-JYPsIG4ljVDgSToPTbbr27JavgMUGRIsTLp5dHbCGtdkn-/s640/11.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: CURSOR: hand" /></a> I really fell for these beautiful seascapes by artist <a href="http://www.radfordwine.com/">Radford Wine</a>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdsnfYX8-2FMq4-avwNkllUBNm3jxzQxFJXBDUl_JQpCgugcAlFgZx2HzbtqwTiDYaojIhRtZEx_0ZMthQyZbSW3pCKzVFx3JBAZJN4Hx7JoinujjvXwJqi3Tz7L6Yh2csxWUtSM4nBU-/s1600/10.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014308725714674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdsnfYX8-2FMq4-avwNkllUBNm3jxzQxFJXBDUl_JQpCgugcAlFgZx2HzbtqwTiDYaojIhRtZEx_0ZMthQyZbSW3pCKzVFx3JBAZJN4Hx7JoinujjvXwJqi3Tz7L6Yh2csxWUtSM4nBU-/s400/10.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Collected treasures on a gorgeous wood desk. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrCNYKMtQUhjqe-AhqDgvg9i9twbV4ib7TdONjM5H-GWEM8v0h-K4gtxaHsEefZjgPV3EF1fioBwmyhFKiqQg_TkeEHOS4gEMxGHBsY8ctpuV1He95Kt29w8IGSB98dLI4If-egryD0kD/s1600/3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014170849722290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrCNYKMtQUhjqe-AhqDgvg9i9twbV4ib7TdONjM5H-GWEM8v0h-K4gtxaHsEefZjgPV3EF1fioBwmyhFKiqQg_TkeEHOS4gEMxGHBsY8ctpuV1He95Kt29w8IGSB98dLI4If-egryD0kD/s400/3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 379px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The faux bois piece was the owned by the late Bill Blass. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRlMWJW_PPVVcB2C5pRHZe3yQVOInkFVhBTtREZ_sVNQGybi-DjC-46RqBVZmWZiIgS5MGp8qdayVBf7-3mApFQzrMnGoDl3fRdkgy_xchXA4Dk2swWUcOYstChcJEMxkOkJaajea1Kgv/s1600/9.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455014098720691778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRlMWJW_PPVVcB2C5pRHZe3yQVOInkFVhBTtREZ_sVNQGybi-DjC-46RqBVZmWZiIgS5MGp8qdayVBf7-3mApFQzrMnGoDl3fRdkgy_xchXA4Dk2swWUcOYstChcJEMxkOkJaajea1Kgv/s400/9.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> More whimsy; a little modern blue chair sized just right for a grandchild. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj7uYP8g-rpUU3EqR_SVDfIZ_NxT5n2MfqHWqtIGrs-KBMhTMODCYSOottyhGa4VQGHuq_cNDPA67vqZypoQyrT-CMF9zmJJ_tF5Rzmfx8BO3P0PnQgPITN-uBnhUjggyZaEKuvEmgA0g0/s1600/6.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455013463840176274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj7uYP8g-rpUU3EqR_SVDfIZ_NxT5n2MfqHWqtIGrs-KBMhTMODCYSOottyhGa4VQGHuq_cNDPA67vqZypoQyrT-CMF9zmJJ_tF5Rzmfx8BO3P0PnQgPITN-uBnhUjggyZaEKuvEmgA0g0/s400/6.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 316px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5N6AT6m7wlielXua9OxFpCHSQ1WwB9tcH4RyhKWeVUG1qcdgpq5iA2sm3jMr5FIYiNqtW-I7eu0cIi_3iFfBLS6ikQ37IFnIfRo8KVb5QqvWGQSb09BuVkFu64jsWVSnffoJgrE1MQkL9/s1600/5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455013365956460530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5N6AT6m7wlielXua9OxFpCHSQ1WwB9tcH4RyhKWeVUG1qcdgpq5iA2sm3jMr5FIYiNqtW-I7eu0cIi_3iFfBLS6ikQ37IFnIfRo8KVb5QqvWGQSb09BuVkFu64jsWVSnffoJgrE1MQkL9/s640/5.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The view from the upstairs to the main entry. Light and fresh even on what was a very overcast day. Notice the two croquet mallets here too. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxTY4q4r18Kg_CVHXAVGHZXVwdIMr6c32pHpQN1WBbcXIHz5MIkz9_n-GIOBDiDUD3Rl7jVCvgFa-f6p03GifFRkUV6Uy2nNX2LUdAWJHZCrUHf1ZmFBhwQmWcoxHeNay5OaOe764m6Tgp/s1600/1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455013255162234226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxTY4q4r18Kg_CVHXAVGHZXVwdIMr6c32pHpQN1WBbcXIHz5MIkz9_n-GIOBDiDUD3Rl7jVCvgFa-f6p03GifFRkUV6Uy2nNX2LUdAWJHZCrUHf1ZmFBhwQmWcoxHeNay5OaOe764m6Tgp/s400/1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 394px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A bookscape of pink and orange, arranged almost as a present. More to follow in the coming weeks from this original home. </div></div>

Extraordinary Home: Part 2

There is so much to share from this home and the gardens that I plan to do it in installments. I think of this house like a wonderful confe...

9:18 PM

Sneak Peek into an Extraordinary Home!

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eXWT7ZO6tGNrON1jmGZzoUGDZHdzSb3hBPXJjrd9utHc9y1wQ4Tj6s-YIa-jBC9-lkncENOFktyxoCsIxBTYa9Mm-xooTKVxJ-LhHClcxpQXm2Gf8-z25Z2rYXj2iHrIMbKDYW63ec69/s1600/1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454260360706304850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eXWT7ZO6tGNrON1jmGZzoUGDZHdzSb3hBPXJjrd9utHc9y1wQ4Tj6s-YIa-jBC9-lkncENOFktyxoCsIxBTYa9Mm-xooTKVxJ-LhHClcxpQXm2Gf8-z25Z2rYXj2iHrIMbKDYW63ec69/s640/1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>What happens when an extraordinary person whose creativity and tremendous joy for living is expressed in her home? Well, yesterday I had the pleasure of finding out when I of visited one of the most beautiful and unique homes I have ever seen! Here's just a sneak peak to start with. Above, lions from Beacon Hill standing guard at this writing desk filled with mementos and treasures. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BJEuwVJdQ-UEZMN-a8uZk3jBTsNIflaDkpW9fL0bjMqV9_p_oN01-bSu60hAfqmLco9-JmGAeijuVErR1tedIC5P7OLYV_boDKu4XMDdtIO8xKvdAfDBPIRfLQmCrKrrADHlDkgQfGdt/s1600/2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454260435049431698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BJEuwVJdQ-UEZMN-a8uZk3jBTsNIflaDkpW9fL0bjMqV9_p_oN01-bSu60hAfqmLco9-JmGAeijuVErR1tedIC5P7OLYV_boDKu4XMDdtIO8xKvdAfDBPIRfLQmCrKrrADHlDkgQfGdt/s640/2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A pink glass ball, just so, setting off this gorgeous blue and cream striped sofa. I didn't notice it the first time I entered the room so it was unexpected fun to come across it the second time. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffx0yLXQa76V2pYH2nm7Qp0tTjVAZAqItKbSSyr71vqLf_LmaB5hxs6Yenz_dF1vX-_6go6o-XsNXGiIpkDFAYMFrz2JpX-TMn9Ge9XGQbM9DUpRfDfLzY55yl-s6DfZZOUetHrU4eevO/s1600/4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454260277614668802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffx0yLXQa76V2pYH2nm7Qp0tTjVAZAqItKbSSyr71vqLf_LmaB5hxs6Yenz_dF1vX-_6go6o-XsNXGiIpkDFAYMFrz2JpX-TMn9Ge9XGQbM9DUpRfDfLzY55yl-s6DfZZOUetHrU4eevO/s640/4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8k7a4j3NkPOCuB4vC260nUfaoW-dlWENqM41adUJqdjdtVClpw3f6fkTKuO0W3gxmY3xrBOzbu09U1ig0p3V9hJuYAqVNCDjqAsj-If4jqaj1nH2hAZAOo-wFPynTCh9OFWF_lsPnGyZ/s1600/3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454259914589327874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8k7a4j3NkPOCuB4vC260nUfaoW-dlWENqM41adUJqdjdtVClpw3f6fkTKuO0W3gxmY3xrBOzbu09U1ig0p3V9hJuYAqVNCDjqAsj-If4jqaj1nH2hAZAOo-wFPynTCh9OFWF_lsPnGyZ/s640/3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Hats on chairs remind the cats where to sit and where not to. Philippe Starck - yes, Queen Anne chair - no. Come back tomorrow for more of this whimsical and joyful home - there is so much more beauty to share. And, thank you to Wanda Crossley of <a href="http://www.matthewshouseandgarden.com/">Matthews House & Garden</a> and to the wonderful homeowner for sharing it all with me! It was a privilege.

Sneak Peek into an Extraordinary Home!

What happens when an extraordinary person whose creativity and tremendous joy for living is expressed in her home? Well, yesterday I had the...

3:58 AM

Reader Request: Ferrules

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ELRLtxl4qyrNlt-SjBu3J8rUURQ2eCz79s-baplZ-YBwly45mEFUE5AHTa6T57Po6AF5_Or1wu6_pGiP3gkkWJumG9G5RF-2tM1UMm4KvT0gErozvmhR54z63q7G-OE9rQyzqGgZeJZc/s1600/ferrulespaxtonhardare.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452896078348152162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ELRLtxl4qyrNlt-SjBu3J8rUURQ2eCz79s-baplZ-YBwly45mEFUE5AHTa6T57Po6AF5_Or1wu6_pGiP3gkkWJumG9G5RF-2tM1UMm4KvT0gErozvmhR54z63q7G-OE9rQyzqGgZeJZc/s400/ferrulespaxtonhardare.gif" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 140px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>A reader was interested to know what was the official name for those metal furniture end caps. She's interested in adding some to her furniture and had only been able to find the type with caster wheels. This was a mutual interest for both of us because I'm missing one on my desk that I found via a post by <a href="http://www.mynottinghill.blogspot.com/2009/06/upcycling-part-1-thank-you-domicidal.html">Domicidal Maniac</a>. Here's a pic of a leg with one - before refinishing. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjESdKN0RuF0pbeF6I59S__eIHa3lBF0wzriXLOJBCF6KZObZnKsYw5wbKeBbw4HicvR7x3Q1257Df3ouCKQWFfEOd8u6rSDPDgnRLgLDWM8zcSa-EkQNUNHz1_mC2fkyXlUjAwSq5PDVpP/s1600/atlanta+672+(2).jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452898070802464258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjESdKN0RuF0pbeF6I59S__eIHa3lBF0wzriXLOJBCF6KZObZnKsYw5wbKeBbw4HicvR7x3Q1257Df3ouCKQWFfEOd8u6rSDPDgnRLgLDWM8zcSa-EkQNUNHz1_mC2fkyXlUjAwSq5PDVpP/s400/atlanta+672+(2).jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9cKil4oxfEXpgd-xFSgajv51LCn4FKfwnWJ-6hbSAACHMw-Lfojsb9IvKnz0G57OlfnDChq4dthOXRnxeo1Fxhn_dslIXrxFIk3wN9-66XRmF_zlXFL2UsC2h9vCCGtMEA250ZWnKORD/s1600/paxton.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452896001085851234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9cKil4oxfEXpgd-xFSgajv51LCn4FKfwnWJ-6hbSAACHMw-Lfojsb9IvKnz0G57OlfnDChq4dthOXRnxeo1Fxhn_dslIXrxFIk3wN9-66XRmF_zlXFL2UsC2h9vCCGtMEA250ZWnKORD/s400/paxton.gif" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 144px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Well after a bit of research I found out what designers probably already know - it turns out they're called ferrules. These examples are from <a href="http://www.paxtonhardware.com/Ferrules-br-Furniture-Leg-Caps/departments/884">Paxton Hardware</a> if you happen to be in search of some, although I'm sure other companies carry them. Paxton has an informative guide for measuring the size you need <a href="http://www.paxtonhardware.com/Antique_Furniture_Hardware/Measuring_Cup_Casters.asp">here</a>. <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1zcfzVPLAKTzXyOBSKiaq69uE436Z8CWiznX49tgkMNqVAdn36ZJci9e4aLiyl15VNtCmbwnayT6595jF88BrV_KNEKd6Q6npi9dDsqI6NVwf9bJa8sP9e8VLj0RS4i323sFqWXF6_5V/s1600/paxtonfer.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452895920024320722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1zcfzVPLAKTzXyOBSKiaq69uE436Z8CWiznX49tgkMNqVAdn36ZJci9e4aLiyl15VNtCmbwnayT6595jF88BrV_KNEKd6Q6npi9dDsqI6NVwf9bJa8sP9e8VLj0RS4i323sFqWXF6_5V/s400/paxtonfer.gif" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 180px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 191px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsFkGOXoGU4b7vEl0FghzkviJkDPIHMkvGmdsz0XOwiHCiFuO1L-qZ1l6qnRp7DG2Srv3Cn-tJimC0ZZtsFbXdLG5ESzOByEJl18QS93JkJgeC9ok_98Oj3a6L-RZmgoGlobqzqOL-nGn/s1600/fsashasidetablealexahamptonhickorychair.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452895839850154834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsFkGOXoGU4b7vEl0FghzkviJkDPIHMkvGmdsz0XOwiHCiFuO1L-qZ1l6qnRp7DG2Srv3Cn-tJimC0ZZtsFbXdLG5ESzOByEJl18QS93JkJgeC9ok_98Oj3a6L-RZmgoGlobqzqOL-nGn/s400/fsashasidetablealexahamptonhickorychair.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 313px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>I think ferrules give a nice finishing touch to certain types of furniture. Love them on this <a href="http://www.mintainteriors.com/i/sasha-side-table/HC5486-40.html">Sasha side</a> table by Alexa Hampton for Hickory Chair. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPELuT6h2ITG03fuK7LnPE4P9ufkHGGL9RtG_hpqETz0P4MWBK4na5p7k2xPYn5Lh1_s80RkrZFZN5jd0l5m4Jt5RxOf4mFz9xiBGP6TR29oQ-poE5Zw2P1vOvmlKGdFI5Ik-M_ojXe1p/s1600/2010-dc-design-house.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452899527479072786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPELuT6h2ITG03fuK7LnPE4P9ufkHGGL9RtG_hpqETz0P4MWBK4na5p7k2xPYn5Lh1_s80RkrZFZN5jd0l5m4Jt5RxOf4mFz9xiBGP6TR29oQ-poE5Zw2P1vOvmlKGdFI5Ik-M_ojXe1p/s400/2010-dc-design-house.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 351px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 261px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>On another note, don't forget to plan on going to the <a href="http://www.dcdesignhouse.com/">DC Design House</a> which is taking place April 10 - May 9th. I've heard from a reliable source that it's going to be terrific!</div>

Reader Request: Ferrules

A reader was interested to know what was the official name for those metal furniture end caps. She's interested in adding some to her fu...

4:00 AM

Room Envy: Light & Dark

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPHHnBrEwAcsRax4qkmJhbpBP2CoglTR2ibruTB_5BB64uxPh8lEFjkrZhoANgN_SN9vBN_akAOPqMyeD2EpH3DMd_dqVj3wfumef_LHRkJK0noLgSLH_kLX6_lO4OMK-29CagvsYi_x9/s1600/HBdSaraScaglionepLucaTrovato.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452155008348900370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPHHnBrEwAcsRax4qkmJhbpBP2CoglTR2ibruTB_5BB64uxPh8lEFjkrZhoANgN_SN9vBN_akAOPqMyeD2EpH3DMd_dqVj3wfumef_LHRkJK0noLgSLH_kLX6_lO4OMK-29CagvsYi_x9/s800/HBdSaraScaglionepLucaTrovato.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Love the contrast here in this bedroom designed by Sara Scaglione - even though it's dark and light the room still feels quiet and relaxed. Sara also happens to be the owner of <a href="http://www.shabbyslipsaustin.com/">Shabby Slips</a> in Austin and Houston. Hope you're having a great week - TGIt' almost F! Is it too soon to say that on a Wednesday? (Image via <a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/relaxed-design?click=main_sr">House Beautiful</a>, photography by Luca Trovato)

Room Envy: Light & Dark

Love the contrast here in this bedroom designed by Sara Scaglione - even though it's dark and light the room still feels quiet and relax...

4:05 AM

DC Designer Series: Barbara Franceski

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIudQj1t7b-ofqRtIEYeVlHZY24eWWt565Ft7QerV59DrHE6wLEFF4UM2nhFqiiUH8SACtv-RrhClY2jc0F8d89MFT33s-9k4h_alfu_lpli3CAv2KBPntYuzep8BG5BKhfnMlyP6vXWiF/s1600-h/bf1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451405913147788370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIudQj1t7b-ofqRtIEYeVlHZY24eWWt565Ft7QerV59DrHE6wLEFF4UM2nhFqiiUH8SACtv-RrhClY2jc0F8d89MFT33s-9k4h_alfu_lpli3CAv2KBPntYuzep8BG5BKhfnMlyP6vXWiF/s640/bf1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The other week while attending the <a href="http://www.dcdesigncenter.com/">Washington Design Center's</a> Ones to Watch Awards, the portfolio of <a href="http://www.barbarfranceski.com/">Barbara Franceski</a>, one of the nominees, really caught me eye. I like the interesting, layered interiors she creates. Comfortable and inviting but with a bit of the unexpected added in - whether it's a bit glam & glitter, an interesting accent piece or an oversized pattern. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZfGmOHwmJjfjAZ_L21XWXi9LwAMZCIvMK_pG6pVcm41oX8_kQncM2uTX3i3q5B32cWyZbCYve5QJaMQ_XKQxvIksdbyhKFS0I9KTcYboZsHg5j9J2NMmqgftOtNPk5IGOmP90UDmbwIz/s1600-h/bf9.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451405831031356098" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZfGmOHwmJjfjAZ_L21XWXi9LwAMZCIvMK_pG6pVcm41oX8_kQncM2uTX3i3q5B32cWyZbCYve5QJaMQ_XKQxvIksdbyhKFS0I9KTcYboZsHg5j9J2NMmqgftOtNPk5IGOmP90UDmbwIz/s640/bf9.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Love the fresh spring green accent pillows in this room and the repetition of the oversized nail head trim. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocjV4hNWIkWCsnT2tAmmmmWQeVxJLn56Y-YYHy-JtIFQN0bNpElaKTP-DGbjwEQQafDeGU_nBaPmAk9WdCqw-Yf3DFMgh_NuWsbaCEgq8eC2rrwgvxUC3m8NkHK7kDcpHvgf5NveQ884O/s1600-h/bf12.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451405478304128498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocjV4hNWIkWCsnT2tAmmmmWQeVxJLn56Y-YYHy-JtIFQN0bNpElaKTP-DGbjwEQQafDeGU_nBaPmAk9WdCqw-Yf3DFMgh_NuWsbaCEgq8eC2rrwgvxUC3m8NkHK7kDcpHvgf5NveQ884O/s640/bf12.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrC3_JNZoBsFDDVFp51xNFZXA6waZMcK81p7-60fc6etuCja0zqSaxZUgmz6RfFC1_-4bhm79fQL2R5TSNXmDbZeaPFo5v0U9lG0XK1vNlVfp0pdLN3vKNUkbP6VmGFOZRoI95ksSaebQ/s1600-h/bf3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451405728870180594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrC3_JNZoBsFDDVFp51xNFZXA6waZMcK81p7-60fc6etuCja0zqSaxZUgmz6RfFC1_-4bhm79fQL2R5TSNXmDbZeaPFo5v0U9lG0XK1vNlVfp0pdLN3vKNUkbP6VmGFOZRoI95ksSaebQ/s640/bf3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Great pattern! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fgLeyBvy9nnyW5H79Y3CzLmrcsMsgKKpIGYcchNEp5cnp13JaoUx5l_C591VfKlR1nfhAo1Ie740wHgYYo1ieM6xdhA7spMww0We9VihlmXamRoNfQTNqPKf78AGbePbKmxRe3RQOF5_/s1600-h/bf2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451409618791428898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fgLeyBvy9nnyW5H79Y3CzLmrcsMsgKKpIGYcchNEp5cnp13JaoUx5l_C591VfKlR1nfhAo1Ie740wHgYYo1ieM6xdhA7spMww0We9VihlmXamRoNfQTNqPKf78AGbePbKmxRe3RQOF5_/s640/bf2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQRz8UNtZHL-25pABhq8sZimo_rfr7ZoNCnFsmfauKFMtw0HAPPiR6r2F-MSKHzLzmrztw14Gj-DML869k-v1Wizr-Il57O7ZXbuVCvMyNCyPfVRjbxsyTQmirgFWm47zxxYkDaxHq5ag/s1600-h/bf5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451405332592529522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQRz8UNtZHL-25pABhq8sZimo_rfr7ZoNCnFsmfauKFMtw0HAPPiR6r2F-MSKHzLzmrztw14Gj-DML869k-v1Wizr-Il57O7ZXbuVCvMyNCyPfVRjbxsyTQmirgFWm47zxxYkDaxHq5ag/s640/bf5.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFnMnwhiwdKwj44yFjr6G-4o1BWTRQDc0HkwTXizeZ1GvY7PL-7UAam9DwJCg-fDzcowCaxttfQmFR63oypBgyILRmAdp-JYpGHuansSSHU9OeUpwjrhO6MyQGg5uYohgSdLSO7J6vAn6/s1600-h/bf11.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451404363606728242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFnMnwhiwdKwj44yFjr6G-4o1BWTRQDc0HkwTXizeZ1GvY7PL-7UAam9DwJCg-fDzcowCaxttfQmFR63oypBgyILRmAdp-JYpGHuansSSHU9OeUpwjrhO6MyQGg5uYohgSdLSO7J6vAn6/s640/bf11.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A bit of whimsy - often reserved for bedrooms this wire model looks terrific here (which I think is in the main living area of the home) <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDc1NMVhVcuroLB_bTQzE_ZOvQZgqfYsWGz4slyLErPdtwZCqSa_MnN4coxa0_Cxdl5Uc9Sy6xQLDqnw1QoBh_Z124BInydffdBwL_kcu_-YCY0lfC-WEHrozBl_y85PRAhAZ5g5ynxwh/s1600-h/bf8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451404165495595378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDc1NMVhVcuroLB_bTQzE_ZOvQZgqfYsWGz4slyLErPdtwZCqSa_MnN4coxa0_Cxdl5Uc9Sy6xQLDqnw1QoBh_Z124BInydffdBwL_kcu_-YCY0lfC-WEHrozBl_y85PRAhAZ5g5ynxwh/s640/bf8.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Love Barbara's solution for those very tall windows - it adds to the comfortable scale of the seating area. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvuyplWY8_AoTNKTsn-i0ixluGNAQhz0IHKKWaz8qn_zHhF59Z45xeIANtHLFvO8kW99E9xTU9-kD6N4FFTEheHtYPepA5YA7r9vYDDN_d0_nTfU1pBloO1k_VBppH-UCCQ5oZ_4xzs7qO/s1600-h/bf10.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451404022061147154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvuyplWY8_AoTNKTsn-i0ixluGNAQhz0IHKKWaz8qn_zHhF59Z45xeIANtHLFvO8kW99E9xTU9-kD6N4FFTEheHtYPepA5YA7r9vYDDN_d0_nTfU1pBloO1k_VBppH-UCCQ5oZ_4xzs7qO/s640/bf10.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> What can you say - this is a terrific bedroom! Love how the upholstered element continues from the headboard through the base of the bed. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzE52SwWtLC4JwFvDx3NfSHNuYlxLa0z3S3-mrY_qWyJGHBS_34dR07Opf2HwmAa1VU9n0BN7tP_WT-_2l_1y31bHTemoIKBcaQfWZSUgrndf7ZZ08aqPz0_XqJzk3522k27ktzlXN_UU/s1600-h/bf6.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451403928224839410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzE52SwWtLC4JwFvDx3NfSHNuYlxLa0z3S3-mrY_qWyJGHBS_34dR07Opf2HwmAa1VU9n0BN7tP_WT-_2l_1y31bHTemoIKBcaQfWZSUgrndf7ZZ08aqPz0_XqJzk3522k27ktzlXN_UU/s640/bf6.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOY2hWOCZ7Sm0ivdm4yrUcN0Q4qtONaaREUaRSoqyyPrOBWjlnqe-fkyJU9eV-N3tmWgquzDFw6bIYvoq2rAtZxldgV-0n8lm11URaS5fCAnfL5re_wE_Ij-OJEtdLOG6qW9P_e-vbsJ0a/s1600-h/bf4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451403784802665842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOY2hWOCZ7Sm0ivdm4yrUcN0Q4qtONaaREUaRSoqyyPrOBWjlnqe-fkyJU9eV-N3tmWgquzDFw6bIYvoq2rAtZxldgV-0n8lm11URaS5fCAnfL5re_wE_Ij-OJEtdLOG6qW9P_e-vbsJ0a/s640/bf4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>If you're interested in seeing Barbara's work in person, there's good news. She'll be creating a guest sitting room in the upcoming <a href="http://www.dcdesignhouse.com/">DC Design House</a>. In a recent email, Barbara mentioned the window treatments have been installed and the furniture and artwork are about to be installed. Really looking forward to it! In the meantime, if you'd like to see more of Barbara's work, you'll find her porfolio <a href="http://www.barbarafranceski.com/">here</a>. (photography by Gunnar Westerlind or Barbara Franceski)

DC Designer Series: Barbara Franceski

The other week while attending the Washington Design Center's Ones to Watch Awards, the portfolio of Barbara Franceski , one of the no...

3:29 AM

Thomas O'Brien's New Book

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9SATvXnFr2nzIMb74XWA1fW173HPfn6R-gNbaASdk6_aLPUgM1ae7IvH3BKmlUgZC1L86h07MCju1o50-cR8kJMsLqfDlYH2lL6gWhk5LIGSaA9qK_Fp9_wTmXR0aHV3qqAo0NqPbwtsi/s1600-h/thomas4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450296583350283874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9SATvXnFr2nzIMb74XWA1fW173HPfn6R-gNbaASdk6_aLPUgM1ae7IvH3BKmlUgZC1L86h07MCju1o50-cR8kJMsLqfDlYH2lL6gWhk5LIGSaA9qK_Fp9_wTmXR0aHV3qqAo0NqPbwtsi/s640/thomas4.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a>Has anyone had a chance to read Thomas O'Brien's new book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0810984784/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0810984784&linkCode=as2&tag=myno0ab-20">American Modern</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myno0ab-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0810984784" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />?  I just ordered a copy and am hoping it arrives by Saturday's mail. Canadian <a href="http://www.houseandhome.com/">House and Home</a> featured O'Brien's apartment in their April 2010 issue and some of those images are available on their web site. Hope you have a great weekend! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyY2VZa6wQZzHgXhAic7CYzHCnhKBsE5XT9BPMwYSWN45z7wyR-1WP2y_biXjCToPuinAWYf1zF4Jjy6v22PvHuKs2u048-IAVRyJscOJjI05XjDl4w-6QCt49GugKkhUVh84lRFuBt2r/s1600-h/thomas1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450295909594742338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyY2VZa6wQZzHgXhAic7CYzHCnhKBsE5XT9BPMwYSWN45z7wyR-1WP2y_biXjCToPuinAWYf1zF4Jjy6v22PvHuKs2u048-IAVRyJscOJjI05XjDl4w-6QCt49GugKkhUVh84lRFuBt2r/s640/thomas1.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-8hwGszrxq9AP81kDeRxSe58VMxC3LQUhQLMdPolMKoZ6zg6Gd_c1FQVMpGHtSFyQ3uKL9Ra-gu1yZpRRYP97YiGWcRY8ODcXMMivKAtjZS6cywqeUs-rQjR678NAxEW89CVI2sHZPHe/s1600-h/thomas.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450298269095495394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-8hwGszrxq9AP81kDeRxSe58VMxC3LQUhQLMdPolMKoZ6zg6Gd_c1FQVMpGHtSFyQ3uKL9Ra-gu1yZpRRYP97YiGWcRY8ODcXMMivKAtjZS6cywqeUs-rQjR678NAxEW89CVI2sHZPHe/s640/thomas.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a> (Images from American Modern via Canadian <a href="http://www.houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-designer-thomas-obriens-apartment">House and Home</a>)

Thomas O'Brien's New Book

Has anyone had a chance to read Thomas O'Brien's new book American Modern ? I just ordered a copy and am hoping it arrives by Satur...

3:51 AM

Happy St. Patrick's Day

<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnaVEyz9QDCq_YLTBqEE2cYwcdfMzVHaZzuTfxn4YI3ItntuisinSbP4Uqv0OE2wrU7k-juqO6IRmbgey6Ag5HNqlHgM51EjEdCVI_zmODbzMmj1WyloCkntx77CrclEc0BZ-RuiC8kGOL/s1600-h/rossbeighbeach.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314115084421065506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnaVEyz9QDCq_YLTBqEE2cYwcdfMzVHaZzuTfxn4YI3ItntuisinSbP4Uqv0OE2wrU7k-juqO6IRmbgey6Ag5HNqlHgM51EjEdCVI_zmODbzMmj1WyloCkntx77CrclEc0BZ-RuiC8kGOL/s800/rossbeighbeach.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Happy St. Patrick's Day!! </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"> Beannacht Dé leat! God's Blessing with You Rossbeigh Strand, Glenbeigh Co.Kerry, my grandmother's birthplace </div>

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Happy St. Patrick's Day!! Beannacht Dé leat! God's Blessing with You Rossbeigh Strand, Glenbeigh Co.Kerry, my grandmother's bir...

4:03 AM

DC Designer Series: Liz Levin

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsdOF6_zKO9B-OHjs-G4BB_q_sy2BgjOJeX6fs_qv7B5-l168uY3KYKUwLNICHUl2nVqQAYLrK97BHIywYtKggyMieMw_hQh_pWff_uviq_nvzcesOVIQlOkU-3tjdvGrvcF47JWii5SN/s1600-h/levin2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448969075695988786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsdOF6_zKO9B-OHjs-G4BB_q_sy2BgjOJeX6fs_qv7B5-l168uY3KYKUwLNICHUl2nVqQAYLrK97BHIywYtKggyMieMw_hQh_pWff_uviq_nvzcesOVIQlOkU-3tjdvGrvcF47JWii5SN/s640/levin2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>After looking through the extensive portfolio of DC based designer <a href="http://www.lizlevininteriors.com/">Liz Levin</a>, it's hard to believe that her firm was launched as recently as 2004. I like Liz's fresh, clean lined approach to design and her comfortable mix of furniture, fabrics and accents. Every room reads liveable - not an accomplishment as easy to achieve as it might sound. Love the simplicity of this foyer and the very interesting carvings on the black bureau. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1DwJa_OJNokKyQYehe6rZBLKxhnBbmeksXP1MHFCNulPWIWmWgyWwTmfyksdGikZjEJPiZoygzJZ_dRpFryOtFTDyfoBQ-qrl7CG78loJuAdxHYxeh1frwJ8IgwbLEIXbHswZnRblU-G/s1600-h/levin1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448969297142293586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1DwJa_OJNokKyQYehe6rZBLKxhnBbmeksXP1MHFCNulPWIWmWgyWwTmfyksdGikZjEJPiZoygzJZ_dRpFryOtFTDyfoBQ-qrl7CG78loJuAdxHYxeh1frwJ8IgwbLEIXbHswZnRblU-G/s640/levin1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRz7y0wK29BFZH1iTUo3DDmXtjCZoWJcMnut2AW2GnIS8iYO3VmBsQ_6g5ZTtVbbFTyxwUTzm7l-XIwzsXWpEfX4VT71APHmQPJJv0LZ3UiwoCIfeJhm1_KsH_nS0DyZ35wms_oMGf9i6J/s1600-h/levin5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448968893206685618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRz7y0wK29BFZH1iTUo3DDmXtjCZoWJcMnut2AW2GnIS8iYO3VmBsQ_6g5ZTtVbbFTyxwUTzm7l-XIwzsXWpEfX4VT71APHmQPJJv0LZ3UiwoCIfeJhm1_KsH_nS0DyZ35wms_oMGf9i6J/s640/levin5.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> I love everything about this bright white kitchen, especially the unexpected modern chrome chairs paired with the claw foot table. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGhvlVSMsygz7tagDAHZPEROgPbFEvVdv-Z-9OcpvhWbRaO1y_k22MplJ-kJbPyanA6M7LPVJNuLtahLZgdM-cPj4fC2Os3mBcbWn6crzouBLqru7rztivLjUdPi2EH6dSo6wX6qesAmd/s1600-h/levin4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448968975323505826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGhvlVSMsygz7tagDAHZPEROgPbFEvVdv-Z-9OcpvhWbRaO1y_k22MplJ-kJbPyanA6M7LPVJNuLtahLZgdM-cPj4fC2Os3mBcbWn6crzouBLqru7rztivLjUdPi2EH6dSo6wX6qesAmd/s640/levin4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WNjV_Waqvizjwd4IhOW79BKhzuJcn1WCRylo7mWEDAWxSOmbIjrKKXjrUR0PZ7YqUASvzpM1m0KfUEtdNke86rtFOWfHX6KF0U1t1y13CC4OuUmmQAQ4ubuk1T-PGpYodZoejqQbMG9e/s1600-h/levin6.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448968824363125954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WNjV_Waqvizjwd4IhOW79BKhzuJcn1WCRylo7mWEDAWxSOmbIjrKKXjrUR0PZ7YqUASvzpM1m0KfUEtdNke86rtFOWfHX6KF0U1t1y13CC4OuUmmQAQ4ubuk1T-PGpYodZoejqQbMG9e/s640/levin6.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Notice the artful combination of patterns here - subtle zig zag on the sofa, plaid drapes, diamond lattice on the settee and curves on the pillows and rug. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3YL3SbDz5_1X1u7FAInQe1S_91LRPH9u4g5R_CzocHlgc_jLzbjQGgs2dm2b_TLFAMW9zScnjHBIs4kGQA2_7KB1Y9nqgyrB1MRsSRx4n_8r_ye94IJLNUgZF1uYJ6YPyX_7z_eX_Lm9/s1600-h/levin9.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448968732467949154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3YL3SbDz5_1X1u7FAInQe1S_91LRPH9u4g5R_CzocHlgc_jLzbjQGgs2dm2b_TLFAMW9zScnjHBIs4kGQA2_7KB1Y9nqgyrB1MRsSRx4n_8r_ye94IJLNUgZF1uYJ6YPyX_7z_eX_Lm9/s800/levin9.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> There's a great mix of color and styling of chairs at this dining table; armless chairs in a solid and pattern and Wing back chairs anchoring the ends. Doesn't it make for a very confident and cheerful room? Liz is also an innovator - after the birth of her daughter she realized how challenging it can be to live stylishly, and in response, launched <a href="http://www.lizlevinnesting.com/">Liz Levin Nesting</a>. Nesting is a unique collection of custom and high performance furnishings. Case in point is the following Nesting design for a client with children and pets. BEFORE <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirgPU0cJ4jD45lIaSbMaAuA3bKsTcyBKfKBKPt8husNZq0QyQFLLPhOO-1kWlvL8n8X_7oC3vkMEwaPAZAyN0uWHLu08Ok4WO-23qDsuYl8RI6h6G1PIfMumKbLGgFYkLvapHYPdhv-7lE/s1600-h/room-makeover-1_1.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449039637526695922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirgPU0cJ4jD45lIaSbMaAuA3bKsTcyBKfKBKPt8husNZq0QyQFLLPhOO-1kWlvL8n8X_7oC3vkMEwaPAZAyN0uWHLu08Ok4WO-23qDsuYl8RI6h6G1PIfMumKbLGgFYkLvapHYPdhv-7lE/s400/room-makeover-1_1.gif" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 277px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>"The room had a lot to live up to: it needed to be a gallery, a playroom, a cocktail and TV lounge. Before we got started, we confirmed piano lessons were in the room’s future as well." - Liz Levin AFTER <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkmL8EV-LcdBN56IqxChopaA1Pf9dppYBNqrwFhMpit8NXpzR_vLNLmW6HjI5W6WRjAtPur6l5XhDZb6gjKQ7tp_9RtFhaDSRZEcsJ4Z-V22Wy58L9wWxUyhcibKbkeVq0kK0MI9ujfNh/s1600-h/_DS_3117.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449039447376369730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkmL8EV-LcdBN56IqxChopaA1Pf9dppYBNqrwFhMpit8NXpzR_vLNLmW6HjI5W6WRjAtPur6l5XhDZb6gjKQ7tp_9RtFhaDSRZEcsJ4Z-V22Wy58L9wWxUyhcibKbkeVq0kK0MI9ujfNh/s640/_DS_3117.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Beside the fact that the space is beautiful and kid friendly - it looks so much larger! To check out more great interior designs by Liz Levin go <a href="http://www.lizlevininteriors.com/">here</a>. (Photography by <a href="http://www.angieseckinger.com/">Angie Seckinger</a>)

DC Designer Series: Liz Levin

After looking through the extensive portfolio of DC based designer Liz Levin , it's hard to believe that her firm was launched as recent...

7:31 PM

Thinking About Your Garden?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oAS4FayoRKqoDO5HNzTU186gWPjtkVjLVehM6mQaWiD-d00dCOogmE_-Mv8Ma6-6JYoJUC0flHTpJTtKtfC4puzQmE5DvcJYLQI0z_BPVyAVHPvD91RYx55QTGhELoZTOE2XL0xfET1v/s1600-h/mendez_cover_web.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448479713589029570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oAS4FayoRKqoDO5HNzTU186gWPjtkVjLVehM6mQaWiD-d00dCOogmE_-Mv8Ma6-6JYoJUC0flHTpJTtKtfC4puzQmE5DvcJYLQI0z_BPVyAVHPvD91RYx55QTGhELoZTOE2XL0xfET1v/s640/mendez_cover_web.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a>You may remember a post I did last summer about the garden consultation I had with Kerry Ann Mendez, whom my friend Anne and I had heard speak at the Philadelphia Flower Show. Kerry's business is dedicated to teaching gardeners how to create low-maintenance, ever-blooming perennial gardens and she recently let me know that she as a new book out! Kerry's lecture was chock-full of short cuts, insider tips and money-saving strategies and I'm sure her book will be too. Although looking at the gorgeous gardens she creates, you'd think they were coddled over daily. For more information on her book, go <a href="http://www.pyours.com/Toptenlistsgardenbook.html">here</a>. <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdOqebS8BTFf_7zlqiserxZjtuagqVppcOaSUQFYPpxmGvrx3GtGBIwCvrXQ_Gf_KcHiOyUp4zn1EKCHYFAvUa3PCh4FEMjXd9z2O0MTgfF8E6h70k1advKOtj6TnsXYJnLey8AbiOhNV/s1600-h/kerry.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448479625242466866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdOqebS8BTFf_7zlqiserxZjtuagqVppcOaSUQFYPpxmGvrx3GtGBIwCvrXQ_Gf_KcHiOyUp4zn1EKCHYFAvUa3PCh4FEMjXd9z2O0MTgfF8E6h70k1advKOtj6TnsXYJnLey8AbiOhNV/s640/kerry.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Kerry also mentioned that the 7th Annual Great Garden and Landscaping Symposium is being held again this year at the The Equinox, a world class resort in Manchester VT April 23 - 24. For more info on the agenda and a full listing of all the nationally known speakers, go <a href="http://www.pyours.com/Symposium2010.html">here</a>.</div><div> </div><div>For Virginia readers who can't make it to VT, the annual <a href="http://www.vagardenweek.org/schedule.htm">Historic Virginia Garden Week </a>takes place April 17 - 25. The Arlington gardens on this year's tour are JUST up the street from my house but I have to work that day so I won't be able to attend. </div><div> </div><div>(please note these are my personal recommendations and I receive no form of compensation for them.)</div>

Thinking About Your Garden?

You may remember a post I did last summer about the garden consultation I had with Kerry Ann Mendez, whom my friend Anne and I had heard spe...

6:22 AM