Lounge if you will

In an attempt to combat the January weather and revisit last week's beach trip, my inspiration today comes from some enviable poolside lounges. These pictures capture the epitome of relaxation: a big umbrella, a beautiful pool and a tall glass of whatever (if I'm being honest, it's probably beer). I plan on making through the week by pretending I am lounging in one of these back yards, instead of being behind a desk. 

Obsession: Tufted chairs!

Nothing screams "sit on me!" more than an overstuffed, tufted chair. It's a classic piece of furniture that is both chic and comfortable--beautiful and practical. If you're hoping to revamp a simple chair with upholstery and a diamond tuft, this might be a fun DIY project. (Here is a great tutorial from The Little Green Notebook for DIY tufting) However, if your chair looks anything like the chairs below,  I would hire a professional. Here are some of my favorite tufted inspirations! 

1. Lemon yellow upholstery set against this rustic backdrop, makes this chair a total standout. I also love the stuffed-to-capacity look. 

2. Nothing says glamour like jewel-toned velvet. Not what you call subtle, but very cool.

3. This is the perfect picture of calm: carved wood, cool light and cream fabric. 

4. Bold color and a streamline silhouette update the traditional tuft in this modern take on seating. 

6. This chair celebrates all things girlish and feminine. Perfect for that woman who likes all thing pink and Paris!  

Not so headBORING!

I learned the hard way, when decorating my bedroom in Hilton Head, to always start with the headboard. I had originally picked out everything else and then couldn't find a headboard that looked good. The end result was that I fell in love with a headboard that didn't go with anything and had to completely start over (thank god I kept receipts!) It was significantly easier to choose the other furniture and accessories once the headboard--or the centerpiece of the room--had been settled. I chose a distressed wooden headboard, but I'm also really into fabric covered ones right now. These are some of my favorite variations on fabric headboards. 

1. Try a unique shape!

2. Can you say tufting?

3. Make your own design. 

4. A great place for pattern.

5. Nail heads anyone? 

6. It's all in the details, think about piping. 

Getting dirty

Okay so these are not your average mudrooms. These are take your breath away, stunningly beautiful mudrooms. While it is not the most practical place to blow your budget, I think having a gorgeous mudroom is one of the ultimate luxuries. The first step is to choose high end flooring in a unique pattern. Next, pick the most exquisite door you've ever laid eyes on. Finish it off with cool lighting, a great bench and some Wellies of course! 

Red White & Blue: Election Day Inspiration!

On this exciting day for our great nation, I thought a little red, white and blue decor would put everyone in a patriotic mood! Let's watch the poll returns...Happy Election Day!  

Stunning staircases

These staircases aren't for the timid, but are ideal if you like to make an entrance! Pops of color, sculptural design and ornate iron-work are just a few of the things that make these staircases such a major focal point. Although not the easiest design concept to translate into real life (unless you are building it from scratch), these inspirational stairways can keep you dreaming. 

Bookcases 101

Bookcases are a wonderful opportunity to create a focal point in any room.  If you don't have the space for an entire wall of books (rare indeed), a well decorated bookshelf is an excellent substitute. The key is to find an aesthetically pleasing balance of books and accessories. Here are a few key tricks to help you do this! 

1. Start with a clean shelf! It is so much easier to visualize and rearrange objects when starting with an empty surface. 

2. Don't just go out and buy all trendy accessories. I think it's more interesting when you use books and objects that have been collected throughout a lifetime. It doesn't have to be perfect, but it's so much better when you are seeing something that has a story.

3. Use bright accessories! I love pops of color to liven up dark wood. This bright pink is so much fun, but any choice can work.

4.  Use a mix of accessories. I love the combination of modern (painting), organic (coral) and glamorous (candle sticks). When in doubt a book (I prefer hardback, but I try not to be snobby) is always a good space filler. 

5. Paint the back! This is the fastest way to make the greatest impact. I love this little trick and will definitely be attempting it on my next bookcase.

6. Don't over stuff. A full shelve can look fabulous or end up looking cluttered. When you have a few things that you really want to highlight, I would lean towards a less is more philosophy.

  

7.  The most important part is to step back and give your bookcase a hard look. As a rule of thumb, the more substantial pieces go towards the bottom, while the objects at eye line will get the most attention. It also tends to look better when the shelf displays a nice flow without a rigid symmetry.

If you don't think it looks quite right, then ask a friend to help. I am constantly rearranging things and asking my friends/family's opinion on whether they could look better in a different spot. Good luck arranging your shelf!