the Parsons Desk

I just discovered Front&Main, West Elm's blog.  As a huge fan of the store and its modern bohemian style, I am also a big fan of the blog.  They seem to always showcase their Parsons line; which is probably West Elm's most famous piece often featured in design mags and blogs.  I decided to show how I use my own Parsons desk - as an entry way console.  I decided to get the desk vs. the console because it was deeper and shorter (which worked better for the space) AND I thought it more useful to get a desk should I need to use the piece somewhere else down the line.  {SIDE NOTE: When buying a piece, I try to think of multiple uses for it therefore if it doesn't work as expected I have a back up and also helps justifying a new purchase.  My husband laughs at me for this. }
 

the Love of Craft Paper

I love craft paper.  It's natural, easy and always seems to fit in nicely with the earthy vibe that I am always drawn too.  It has become a staple table runner option, reminiscent of an Italian countryside picnic.  I often write guests names directly on the paper as well as a welcome note providing a nice personal touch.  Craft paper has also become my wrapping paper of choice, either with a big colorful bow or more natural with garden twine and snowflakes for Christmas.  I normally keep a roll in my dining room closet (yes there is a closet in the 24th dining room) but I came across this sweet set up in my daily Remodelista newsletter.  The picture is from the office of Fuzzco in Charlston, but Remodelista provides recommendations on where to find my own massive roll of paper.  Now where to put it.........

(Image: Remodelista, Fuzzco Office)

the Love of Stripes

OK, I am obsessed with stripes, both for clothing and decor but especially rugs.  I have been coveting the Madeline Weinrib Atelier wool black and white rug for years.  I see it in countless magazine shoots and always oogle over it.  Unfortunately, 24th came with standard beige carpeting throughout and the floors are usually the last part of a step-by-step remodel.  So I will stick to loving from afar....

 MWA rug (image via Domino)

 

 

MWA rug (image via Domino)

MWA (image via CocoCozy)

(image via DwellStudio)

IKEA version (image via Dwell)

Stripe Jute, what could be better? (image via West Elm)

the Death of Domino

Ok it's nearly three years, but I am still distraught over the end of my beloved Domino.  I finally got my fixer, where I could invest in real renovations and design experiments and my favorite inspiration was gone.  Thankfully I kept most of my back issues so when we moved into 24th I was able to pour over them again and get fresh ideas for the new space.

But here are a few of my other favorite destinations for the design obsessed...

Magazines:
Lonny Mag - ex Domino staffer, magazine designed web-site, easy links to items and new "my lonny" file saves.  I miss flipping through a magazine although I do appreciate the "green" benefit
Living Etc.  - it has great style, similar to Domino, showcases where to buy, but it's a UK pub so links to UK stores/sites
Anthology - gorgeous, thick paged magazine. An arty approach to design, with in-depth profiles.  So pretty I use them to decorate with (see last picture)

Blogs:
Remodelista - I look forward to this newsletter everyday, awesome inspirations from around the world
22mornings  - this is a designer friend of mine in Buffalo, she has a great sense of style.  She always manages to keep things simple yet intriguing
House*Tweaking - just came across this blog, she has some crafty DIY ideas and I am enjoying her own experiences of living through a renovation
Design*Sponge - will admit, might have been the last to hop on this bandwagon.  It wasn't until I got her book that I started reading her blog.  The sneak peeks are my favorite