Tom Scheerer Decorates - My new favorite and MUST HAVE book

There are a lot of good design and decorating books.  A lot.  But Tom Scheerer Decorates by Mimi Read creates a whole new standard.  Not to sound corny, but this book takes me to my happy place.  It is so beautiful and inspiring.  Just get it.

Unfortunately my very bad scanner will not do the beautiful photography, by Francesco Lagnese, justice.

Told you. 

 You can get it at Amazon.

disclosure: I received this book as a sample from The Vendome Press

The new traditional: interpreted

 classic but unstuffy
Sternfield Design

 I don't know if this is a painting or a photo but I love the artwork here
Passal Design

One fabulous design
Jeff Andrews Design

I love this home office!
Ballard & Mason design

Trad Home Mag

A bright, airy, and elegant home

A lot of super luxe and elegant homes are often done in richer, darker tones, and heavier fabrics. I thought this home was interesting in that it still looks very refined and elegant, but is also very airy and bright.

The ceiling in this bedroom is AMAZING.  Can't beat the light, either.

Another amazing ceiling.  It almost feels like a giant lighthouse!

What do you think?  Do you like this elegant and light look?
via TradHome

A truly special book giveaway - Stealing Magnolias

The cover alone would be wonderful to have. But you have a chance to win the whole book just by commenting on this post. You have until January 3, 5PM EST to leave a comment. The winner will be chosen by a random draw and announced the next day. Good luck!

Here's the editorial review: Debra Shriver tells the story of finding and restoring a house in the French Quarter of New Orleans in the wake of Katrina. Part love letter, part scrapbook; readers are given a rare tour of this enigmatic city. The book is a cultural guidebook and historical reference of America's most European city, featuring the work of more than 20 photographers and artists. Chapters highlight food and entertaining, decorating, gardens, landscapes, local traditions, interiors, and architecture. via Amazon

The gorgeous aforementioned cover

so chic



perfect


We had a huge magnolia tree on the farm where I grew up and just looking at this picture I can literally smell the blossoms.

The book can be purchased here.

All photos from Stealing Magnolias by Debra Shriver, copyright © 2010, published by Glitterati Incorporated. www.Glitteratiincorporated.com.

Lived-in spaces photographed by the talented Ellie Miller

I have quite the migraine today, so I'll leave you on your own with the lovely photos by Ellie Miller













All images property of Ellie Miller

Houses straight out of the movies

Actually, you might have seen one of these homes in a movie. I didn't even know this service was available, but Dixcot Locations manages properties available for use by photographers and film studios. They come equipped with furniture and props, and in some cases they allow their clients to repaint. Personally, I just find them chock full of inspiration, and if you go to Dixcot Locations, there's plenty more where that came from!


A converted church turned loft


love the floors and the stripped couch in this photo



A house from the Tudor era!



love this bedroom!








*sigh* I want a living room that opens up to an English garden!










via Dixcot Locations