Friday, February 28, 2014

attention to detail


In the home of one of our favorite design clients, we recently came across the question of what to do with a big blank wall.  We wanted to create something that was the right scale for the space.  Too many pieces on the wall or trying to cover it in frames just doesn't work.  One big piece is so much better, as we find anything else would simply get lost on such a large wall.  It's all about scale and we needed a piece of furniture to meet the scale of the wall.  Susan Rose of the Willows' Design Team had a brilliant idea for a custom bookshelf.  She drew up the design and added amazing detail to the shelves.  She found an old keystone and had it molded and put into the top of the arches.  She chose the perfect color palette, with the exterior being one color and the interior another.  She paid attention to every single detail, down to what is on the individual shelves.  Each and every shelf has beautiful, unique objects on them, from old leather books and architectural finds to old frames and unusual coral shapes.  Susan's ability to mix the elements is simply stunning.  I just love the use of leather and wood and coral and stone and how they interplay with each other.  Everything in the entire room now flows together.  Once you have a large piece of furniture like this, you in turn need the rest of the furniture to be of the same scale - the large arm chairs, the coffee table... 
There is balance to the whole room.


From inspiration and design...

to a reality...

Call on the Willows' Design Team for all your design needs!

Thursday, February 27, 2014

and, just like that, the nest is empty


A couple weeks ago I sent my youngest child off for a semester in Belgium.  I really cannot believe we don't have anyone at home with us anymore.  After six kids and almost 40 years, it doesn't quite seem real...  Anyway, my daughter Emily flew out of New York, so my best friend Laurie and I went with her to spend a few days in the city and to say farewell.  We all had so much fun and it was perfect to spend some time together away from home before she left.  That city never disappoints!
(side note: all the slightly blurry phone pics are mine, the lovely one's are Emily's)


I just couldn't resist taking this picture, it was too cute...


As usual, we did a nice job of eating our way through this amazing city.
Breakfast of champions at Buvette...


We stopped into ABC Cocina for lunch...


While we were at ABC Carpet, I couldn't help but do a little shopping...
Always love Bella Notte bedding!
Hoping to make myself an apron just like this one :)
I was in love with those little ottomans and the most amazing robes!
Excuse me while I cry...
saying goodbye on our very last night :(

She seems so happy so far and I really have been loving how much we are able to follow along with her adventures thanks to modern technology!  If you want to see some of her beautiful photos of Belgium and hear about her travels check out her blog, A Passion for a Dress.


Wednesday, February 26, 2014

lovely new design projects


Here's a little sneak peek of the front entry in a home we have been working on.
We can't wait to share it with you! 

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

t-shirt tuesday!


It's T-shirt Tuesday again!
Get 20% off all Michael Stars tees and tanks in the store today!


"Fashions fade, style is eternal." - Yves Saint Laurent

Monday, February 24, 2014

tea with my little loves


I took advantage of having all 8 of my granddaughters in town last week and took the lovely little ladies all out to tea.  There is nothing sweeter than seeing them all dressed up and acting like little ladies.  
I am so blessed with these darling girls in my life!
And two more on the way this summer!


Friday, February 21, 2014

happy friday!


Susan and I came across this little scene being prepped for a photo shoot, so I made Susan pretend to be my model :)  It's so fun (and important) to have friends you can be silly and laugh with!  Hope you have a lovely weekend full of lots of fun and laughter!


Thursday, February 20, 2014

why i can't pass up old junk boxes


Because I always have some little guy in my life that needs one!
They make a great birthday present for boys and you can fill them with whatever you like!
My go-to: hot wheels.  I've never met a little boy who didn't love playing cars.