Impulse Accessorising: Kisses

Most of the time there isn't enough money in the budget for a complete overhaul of a home or room and most of the time people would like a little something new to keep their spaces fresh and evolving.  A few new accessories on a console, mantle or side table can breath new life into a room without being cost prohibitive.

From time to time I come across a piece that I would categorize as an "impulse accessory."  It has to be under $100 dollars (so it doesn't require any major savings or a family discussion) but also it needs just enough style to make an impact.

Since its almost Valentines Day, I thought we should get a little romantic.  Don't get the wrong idea... I already have a handsome Valentine.  I'm talking accessories and particularly these fantastic place card holders.  They are created by Dallas' own F is for Frank and are perfect for a romantic night in. With different types of kisses called out on the tag, you are sure to let your Valentine know what type of action you are anticipating. (anything from "Eskimo" to "French")  They will only set you back $35 a piece!  That deserves a Smooch.

Fab 5 on Five: Raising the Bar

Everyone has favorites.  The "go to" places or things that are always the right fit for their sensibilities.  Designers are no different!  If asked, they have a list of favorites for any category in design, whether it's their favorite show stopping sofas or their most coveted accessories. 

Below is another installment of a monthly "Fab 5 on Five", a compilation of my favorite things on (or around..) the fifth of each month.   I've been asked by another designer recently to help him concept a new bar/restaurant space.  We worked together in the past and right now his plate is FULL.  In honor of this great rekindling here are my Top 5 Dallas Restaurant Designs.  How could I pick with the surplus of amazing options? Well, based on the designs ability to create an atmosphere that gets you excited for the food experience!

Dallas Amuse Bouche Installment:

No. 1: Hattie's in Bishop Art.  Fried green tomatoes are served elegantly in the monochromatic space.  The room is sun shiny, elegant and crisp.. which partners nicely with some low-country shrimp and grits.

No. 2: Medina Oven and Bar in Victory Park. You would never wonder if the food was bland in a space with this much vibrancy and I'll assure you it is anything but.  The furnishing layout is just as cozy as their sharable small plates.. you just might make new friends at the next table.

No. 3: The Oak in the Design District. Tailored and cozy with plenty of understated "Oak" references, you know this is the place to be fabulous while enjoying bites like Duo of Kobe Beef or Celery Root Fries.

No. 4 Bolsa in Bishop Arts.  Locally sourced and honest food are what you'll get at Bolsa.  The restaurant says to me, "Hey we are hip, but down to earth." Mixing materials in warm hues and exposing the ceiling let you know its time to kick back and enjoy some goat cheese from Dallas Farmers.

 

No 5: Rise No. 1. on Lovers. The idea of a souffle is light and whimsical.  So is Rise. The table is set with antique linen used as napkins, paired with french silver and re-purposed wine bottles as drinking glasses.  With this sort of attention to detail, you know your souffle will not "flop!"  (check out Hedda Dowd's other en devour, an antique business which sources fantastic tableware pieces from French Chateaus.)

International Inspiration: Thailand II

Especially in comparison to the landscape of Texas, Thailand is a rainbow.  Granted you might have to look past some murky water or streets to see it, but that might be part of the reason that it jumps out.  Whether is on the buildings, flowers or clothing there was an abundance of color inspiration!  

International Inspiration: Thailand Color

From the Royal Grand Palace.  Amazing gold and glittery tile with impeccable detailing. 

We were able to stop at a floral show that was in honor of the King's birthday.  They had a spectacular showing of orchids.  I love the tropical pink and yellow with the crisp white on these guys.

 

Now, people aren't just walking around in these get-ups but they are traditional tribal clothes from the northern regions.  Fun patterns in cheerful colors make for very chic tribal ladies.

Marble edging at the Royal Grand Palace is so subtly colored but its a fantastic discovery as you walk past.

The color of fresh and stir fried veggies, spicy red sauces and white and blue plates had me enjoying the meal before my first bite.

I LOVE the color of bright marigold this monk is wearing!  I wouldn't make a very good monk but I am terribly envious that they get to wear something so cheerful all day!

International Inspiration: Thailand I

My husband and I decided to kick off the New Year in style by traveling to Thailand to visit family.  I had lofty plans of blogging while I was away to keep you guys up to date on my latest inspirations.... but I instead read my book and took in everything!  The weather this time of year was WONDERFUL and everyone there did their part to make sure we had an amazing time! Now, it's back to the real world for us....

  There was inspiration at every turn, and I always had my camera ready to capture it. I'm going to break the pictures down into groups so its not overwhelming.

International Inspiration: Thailand Architecture

Ancient temple ruin.  A series of temple (or Wat) sites were buried with only the top exposed.  They have recently been unearthed and they stored treasures ranging from golden Buddha's to Ming Dynasty pottery.

Beautiful Wat with elaborate dragon entrance.  All of the detail and color is so striking.

Spirit house at the previous temple image.  Read more about Spirit Houses.

Ancient Chedi that was constructed and then renovated by a few different rulers so the detailing is from different periods and styles...  Its also thought to house a gold Buddha.

Close up of the sculptures and carving.  Great patina.

New Wat that is still under construction by an artist that wants it to be the most beautiful building in the world.  Its an amazing statement in its stark white and mirror.

Gold Buddha... He's three stories high at least!

Worn steps at Ayutthaya: the old capitol of Thailand.  These steps have been trod upon since 1350.

Ayuttaya Stupa.  The texture and coloration on these bricks and statuary is fantastic!

 Fantastic statuary at Royal Grand Palace: The King's former residence.

I love all the detail in this tile on the building!

Exterior of the Wat that houses a Buddha made 100% from Jade.  Read its interesting story!

Modern Man Nursery

The little guy that occupies this room has been hanging around for a few months now and he is very excited to share these pictures with you! His mom wanted a cool, calm, and modern room to hang with the Modern Man so we kept all the colors tranquil.  I hope you enjoy the images!

Punches of color were added in the tree decal and the fun lumbar pillow.  Mixing warm textures in a cool color keeps the room clean and fresh but with an inviting feel.  We painted the focal wall a shade darker than the rest to make the white crib pop.  Fun accessories like the white animal pottery and mini ghost chair add a playful touch.

Mom wanted to re-purpose an existing chest for a changing table and for storage.  It was painted white and received new clear drawer pulls.  Family art is always a nice touch in a personal space, so there is a small collection hung over the changing station.

Impulse Accessorizing

Most of the time there isn't enough money in the budget for a complete overhaul of a home or room and most of the time people would like a little something new to keep their spaces fresh and evolving.  A few new accessories on a console, mantle or side table can breath new life into a room without being cost prohibitive.

From time to time I come across a piece that I would categorize as an "impulse accessory."  It has to be under $100 dollars (so it doesn't require any major savings or a family discussion) but also it needs just enough style to make an impact.

Next Installment: Gold Coaster

A set of 4 fabulous textured coasters would add a bit of pizaazz to any coffee table. These would also be fantastic framed in shadow boxes and displayed on the wall as a series.  On sale on One Kings Lane for $59 these won't last long!

Pull Up A Seat... The Dining Room is Complete

 The Hip Family Dining Room is complete and I am so excited to share the pictures with you!   It is an elegant and fresh space where the family can entertain and a jaw dropping first impression since it is the first room you see upon arriving to the home.  I kept the color scheme monochromatic using different shades of silver but in a variety of textures to keep it special.  By introducing pops of color in the art, center piece, and flower arrangements the room gets a little spunk.  

Thank you Andrew Slaton Photography for the great shots!

 The polished table top and metal tones contrast beautifully with the rich velvet and silk tones to keep your eye interested.  

 The drapery tassel is the beautiful chain I salvaged from the decorative light fixtures!  Since the ceiling height is 8 feet, it couldn't be used.  Instead they were re-purposed as an unexpected element in the space.  For the center piece and art I added a little bit of fun and punchy color to keep the space from feeling too serious.  After all this is a REAL family and it needed to reflect the hip youthfulness they exude!

The family wanted a space they could use without worrying about the occasional spill, so everything had to be durable and cleanable.  The table top is made out of white quartz which is completely stain/maintenance free and the chairs are covered in a stain resistant fabric that has a rich texture.

Another great pop of color is added with a floral arrangement standing out against the elegant collection of silver, crystal and wood candlesticks.  A beautiful multifaceted mirror sets the perfect backdrop while reflecting more light into the space.