Tips for the Decorator

I wish this decorating guide had been available last year when I was putting the finishes touches on my new home. I was unsure of the appropriate curtain length, how to combine different printed fabrics in a coherent way and what size rugs work best. This "Guide for the Decorator" by Anthropologie answers many questions that a novice decorator may have. This is definitely one to bookmark for future reference.

(all images via Anthropologie)

Multipurpose Quilts

Use it as a blanket, throw, rug or tapestry. These beautiful quilts are available in an array of prints and themes - cherokee, medallion, geometric, patchwork, batik, peacock, buddha, tree of life, floral. Such an extensive selection makes it hard to choose!

(all images via Urban Outfitters)

Zara Home

Zara, known for stylish women's & men's clothing, shoes & accessories, has a beautiful collection of linens & accents for the home. The collection is organized into 4 categories - White, Country, Ethnic and Chic, so there's something for every taste. Unfortuneately, the Zara home collection is available for purchase online only in Europe. Zara - bring your home line to the United States - it would do amazingly well!

(images via Zara)

Garden Party

~ GARDEN PARTY, COURTESY OF ANTHROPOLOGIE ~





















(images via Anthropologie)

Jewels for the Home

I was introduced to the beautiful hand made textiles of Joyas de Casa (which translates to "jewelry for the home") by Jen of Made by Girl. Joyas de Casa is owned by female entrepreneur Lorenza Filati, who runs the business from her home country of Guatemala. Joyas de Casa's home accents would be a perfect fit in my home studio - a global mix of bohemian, tribal and bali. The collection includes pillows, throws, table runners and bags, all made with rich colors, intricate patterns and accented with tassels and pom poms. These unique pieces would add a fun touch to anyone's home.

(images via Lorenza Filati)

Beautiful Bookends & Giveaway Winner

~ UNIQUE BOOKENDS MADE OF EXOTIC MATERIALS ~

Amethyst Bookends by McCoy Design


Agate Bookends by Royale Minerals




Kung Foo Dog Bookends by Pieces



Lucite Bookends by HB Home

(source)

Many thanks to everyone who entered the American Apparel Nail Polish 3-Pack giveaway! CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER - Brooke of SHRIMP & GLITZ! (I will send you an email shortly).

Nomadic Home Accents

Add a touch of nomad style to your home with the John Lewis collection of nature inspired home accents. Accessorize your home with an eclectic mix of hammered metal, carved wood and shaped ceramic stoneware.

Slip Trail Bowl


Acacia Elephant Sculpture



Pedestal Stand Hurricane


Bronze Tealight Holder


Malika Table Lamp



Gourd Vase

(all images via John Lewis)

Modern Living Room Updates

~ House to Home's guide to 10 easy and inexpensive ways to update your living room ~
Further instructions are available at House to Home


update inexpensive photo frames with fresh paint
revamp a window by applying window film



accent your chimney with some fun tiles
embellish an old mirror



customize a cushion cover with elaborate trim
hand paint a lampshade



bedazzle wallpaper with rhinestones
create your own unique memo board with self adhesive tiles



add your own decorative door border
use an unexpected space as a gallery

(images via House to Home)

Extra Seating Options

Living in New York City means having to maximize space. When guests come over, I need to be able to have extra seating available for everyone, as well as have space to store the extra seating. My permanent living room furniture includes a sectional couch, 2 ottomans that double as extra seating and a bar with two stools for added seating. Sometimes this just isn't enough. I would love to add some fun modern poufs, cozy floors pillows or colorful fold out chairs as additional seating. Any recommendations would be very much appreciated! Some options I am considering:

Poufs by Calypso St. Barth



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