My spring wishlist!

My apartment is still in cold weather mode, and could really use a little spring pep-up and some brighter color.  Here are a few things I just added to my list.

These pillows would be AMAZING on my couch or my bed...

This really pretty console table is on sale for only $186!  - A great choice if you love nature and organic shapes, but you aren't into full-on rustic decor.

I've had my eye on these tables for awhile - they're chic and I haven't seen them before.  I just don't think I have space for them right now...bummer.

I've always loved the lines of this chair.
What changes, if any, do you do to pep up your home for spring and the warmer months ahead?

PS:  If you like what you see here - it's all on sale at HauteLook.  If you're a member - go to their home section for these sales, if you aren't a member - you can use my link (it's fast and free to sign up).

House tour! A vintage but minimal Toronto apartment

This apartment, inhabited by young entrepreneur Nikole, used to be a "bachelor apartment." In the beginning of the 20th century, bachelor apartments were created in old houses for young, unmarried professionals who were just starting out. The space is just 350 sq. ft., but the amazing light and bright walls keep the space airy.

Nikole used to work as a pastry chef, so her kitchen and amazing array of tools is one of the most important areas of her home.  You can see her shop, full of nifty tools, here.

I don't usually go for accent walls, but I like this charcoal gray ones. It keeps the space from being overly feminine.

Go to Covet Garden to see more and read the story.

Table inspiration and eye candy

Pretty uses for one of the most versatile pieces of furniture.

The most apparent use - for dining...highlighted here by a conversation-starting chandelier and a salon style wall.

If you're like me, you can never choose just one book to read. A table gives you the space to spread out.

My office desk is more like a table, because the surface space is so vital to my productivity.

1. House of Fifty 2. Traditional Home 3. & 4. Ryland Peters & Small

Utterly fabulous

Have an utterly fabulous weekend! 

via Utterly Engaged

Opinions please! Two unusal accents for the home...

I thought it might be cool to get your take on two unusual decor treatments that have come my way.

First - the "Marie Antoniete Mirror" by Boca do Lobo. It's an ornately carved wall mirror, which looks like a hand mirror, and ultimately speaks to the largess of Louis XVI's court. 

What do you think?
Do you like is as an objet d'art? 
Could you have it in your house?

Like it or not - a lot of craftsmanship when into the piece.


The next work - If you've ever lived in an old house or apartment, I'm sure you're no stranger to co-ax cable and having to figure out how to deal with the excesses. These cable drawings, by Maisie Maud Broadhead, display an artistic approach for dealing with the issue.

Her approach actually incorporates a lamp, but I still think it would be just as creative with just excess co-ax. 

What do you think?
Do you appreciate this as a work of art, but wouldn't want it in your home?

I'm anxious to hear what you guys think!

A charming upstate farm retreat

It's a dream of all (admit it, all) NYC dwellers to have a country retreat. Kathryn Windley was no exception to the rule. She was tired of her grueling hours as an art director for a Manhattan ad agencies, and was recently divorced. She added a new twist to the New Yorker turned farmer by actually marrying the realtor who found her the property a few years later on the 20-acre grounds!

This living room is kept bright and cheery by the white upholstery and brightly striped rug.

In NYC, unless you pay for a separate studio, on never has space in their apartment for a studio.
One day I hope to have the space to paint and draw again.

The barn is actually a garage they designed to look like a barn.

I adore this kitchen, and Kathryn claims the farmhouse sink is what sold her on the property.  The runner was a once a damaged full-sized carpet she had cut and bound to fit the kitchen.

What do you think?

Read the full story and see more at Country Living

Fresh and inspiring home offices

As some of you know, I work as a freelance web designer. Working for oneself definitely has it's perks, but with it comes a lot more responsibilities, as you are accountable for everything. I am always extremely busy, which I enjoy, but last week I was drowning, and spent most nights up until 3:30 AM to meet my deadlines.

Paramount to working from home is having a home office and work space that is extremely comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Everyone has different work styles, and the furnishings and layout you choose will depend on that and the type of work you do.

A lot of desk surface is a MUST for me
via 91 Mag

Inspiring artwork is always good for when you're having a creative block.
via Small Space Style
 

This office is probably closest to my own, except I have to have one of those ugly office chairs in order to be comfortable.  I also need a very large monitor for my work.
via Adore Home Mag
 

A little chest of drawers helps organize smaller supplies and various cords we need for all of our gadgets these days.
via Bolig
 

I keep magazines for reference, and have several shelves dedicated to storing them.
via Heart Home
 

via Rue Magazine
 

via Southern Living

 I'm interested to know, what is essential for you in your home office?