Let Them Eat Cake

Does all the opulence associated with Marie Antoinette make you lose your head?  

Images and Product Info via here & here.

Cheers!

Elizabeth

“But how will I eat cake if my head is over there, and my hands are over here?”  

~Marie Antoinette

On The Lanai

It's as if O'Brien Ironworks tapped into my soul.  (Is that statement a bit extreme?)

Any combination of this Chinoiserie outdoor furniture is perfectly suited for my dream home; whether it's benches flanking a walkway, a cocktail and dinner arrangement under a covered porch, or chaises and daybeds poolside.  To view any images I neglected to include and the variety of color options click here.

Cheers!

Elizabeth

"To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment."  

~Jane Austen

Shoe Inspired Space

Looking for design inspiration is part of my daily routine; it's a natural habit that fuels my creativity.    Recently a reader asked how I translate an inspiration piece into a design scheme.  I'll use this fabulous pair of Christian Louboutin shoes as an example.

If a client came to me with this shoe in hand I would presume she has a taste for the finer things in life, she values quality, she is not afraid to make a statement and she loves glamour.   Then, of course, I would listen to her ideas and desires.

So how does that translate into interior design?  I would suggest using the inspirational shoe as a design scheme for a more intimate space - perhaps a dressing room or boudoir.  Below are some images that provided me with further inspiration.  

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Designer Lisa Sterio's Home

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This is what I envision:

Imagine walls papered in Romo's Ondina

This chaise lounge upholstered in chartreuse velvet similar to these chairs

Hang this mirror somewhere (the red squares could represent CL's signature red soled shoes.)

An over-the-top statement chandelier, such as this

Black lacquer cabinetry, with a few built-in mirrors, reminiscent of this

This search did not lead to the stool/chair I imagine, but the seat, along with the ceiling, would be cloaked in shades of magenta.   Additionally, I picture a fantastic mirror hanging over the built-in vanity, flanked by a killer pair of sconces.  Once I come across these pieces, I will be sure to update this post.

You get the gist of inspirational interpretation, right?  Whether this meets your tastes or not, I hope I provided a little bit of insight.

Cheers!

Elizabeth

" I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free."  ~ Michelangelo 

Imaginary Space: Mom's Office

A small siting room/den/office of my own would be such a luxury.  This space would afford me an area where I could write, read and relax... ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!  Maybe an occasional nap?  Narrowing down the decor would be quite a feat, but for today here are a few CDJ's I would include...

 This daybed with some bold pillows and a cozy throw.

French Colonial Armchair

A pair of these "Golden Ring" sconces on either side of the day bed.

 Lucky Lacquered side table

Pair of Foo Dogs.

Bamboo Mirror

 Immer White Marble Top Mid-Century End Table - love this table from Overstock!

Silk Panels from JCPenny in Ming Blue -great buy!  I just order some today and plan on adding trim to jazz them up

Glass Desk from Wisteria

French Chair with Slipcover

Navy Greek Key Dhurrie

or this rug

Vintage Paisley Rug

I wish I could have created a pretty "round up" of all these pretty things but I am out of town and forgot my computer cord (hence my laptop is dead).  Therefore, I am using my husband's laptop that lacks any graphic tools.  Additionally, I would love to continue decorating my imaginary mom cave, but my husband needs to get back to work.  What pillows, artwork, desk chair, etc. would you add to this space?

Cheers!

Elizabeth

"You can't depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus." ~ Mark Twain