California Dreamin'

Today's rain and colder weather has me absolutely dreaming of better days. I stumbled upon these spectacular homes in California that helped brighten my day right up.

For example this home by Laura and Homer Oatman takes my breath away.

That extrodornary lamp also caught my eye. Brilliant!

In my opinion, Jeff Andrews took a risk with the color pallette of this space. However, it truely paid off! The dark colors work even in this LA home because of the daylighting that comes into play. Truely insipiring!

If this space doesn't scream San Francisco chic, then I don't know what does! The punchy colors and modern vibe make this space the ultimate hang out spot. I just wish this photo showed more of the amazing view outside...

Interior photo #1, credit: California Homes Magazine

Interior photo #2, credit: Momoy.com

Interior photo #3, credit: Momoy.com

Shaggy!

No matter if "in" or "out", shag rugs will always be a fun addition to any living space. They are cozy, add warmth and are super stylish.

How glamourous!

#1 Living Room image, credit: Crate & Barrel

#2 Living Room image, credit: Team 7

#3 Living room image, credit: Barbara Hill Design

#4 Living room image, credit: Home-Designing.com (The Book of Inspirational Interiors)

#5 Living room image, credit: Home-Designing.com (The Book of Inspirational Interiors)

Green Scenes

Maybe it's just my little heart hoping and wishing and waiting for spring to arrive but lately fun and bright greens have been the colors popping out at me most lately. Lime and fluorescent green is a tough color for design because it either needs to be the main focal point color of have very small splashes throughout a space, as it can be overpower at times. Here are some images that I found very appealing and eye-catching when green is used in a proper and unexpectingly fantasic way:

Love the use of bold patterns and accessories in this Alice in Wonderland inspired room.



Such a fresh and clean (and possibly hard to keep clean) bathroom.

The floor pattern and pillows really caught my eye in this inviting, spring-themed sitting area.

Spring will be here before we know it (fingers crossed), I can just feel it!

Living Room, Photo: Duroque
Bathroom, Photo: Houzz

Sitting Area, Photo: Martha Stewart

Modern Architecture: There is Hope...

I often worry (or is it fear, I can't really tell) about the future of architecture. Homes and industrial buildings are just not built the way they used to be. I know I'm probably preaching to the choir, but the thought of pre-fab this and manufactured-that honestly makes my head hurt. To me, there is nothing like walking through an early 19th century Victorian and just admiring it's profound architecture and stunning details. It's becoming a rarity, and honestly, less and less architects and builders are putting the kind of thought and regard into the aesthetics of a design. We are from an age when quicker is better, "simple" is trendy... however when I see interiors like this, I get inspired again!

Bedroom, Photo: Tumblr, source unknown

Restaurant, Photo: KarmaTrendz

Livable Spaces

While perusing one of my favorite websites, One Kings Lane, I came across this eye-popping space by Katie Lydon...

I think I love just about every piece of furniture and accessories used. It has the perfect blend of cool and comfortable colors with the funky zebra print ottoman to give the room some style. I love the calming green faux linen walls and the way the light shines through the linen shades giving them a pinkish glow.

And, while I couldn't stop there I did a bit more research on Katie Lydon I found another space in the same home that caught my eye as well...

These cabinets are extraordinary. The contrast she created in the floor and stainless steel dining table and chairs is stunning, to say the least.

I love the simplicy of both of these spaces and how livable they actually are. Often times I find myself questioning if a space is actually livable or just for looks, and with these spaces I could actually see myself in them. In fact, I'll move in right now! 

Living Room, photo: One Kings Lane

Kitchen, photo: Katie Lyndon Interiors