Chez Delicious

Philippe Starke goes Baccarat

2010-01-12T00:06:00.000-08:00

Just saw a post on Surroundings which took me right back to my personal Philippe Stark sightings- two this year.

The most sumptuous Maison Baccarat in Paris this picture above I found at We are Private which is the actual shop. They would not let me take photos inside sadly. This place is so delicious.

In a small street of the Champs Elysees

with discreet decorations and a lipstick red door

the balcony above entices with a promise of decadence

enter the Maison and the hall is dramatic

reworked in typical Stark style

dont you love the arm light ? there were arms in the carpet in the showroom too.

the suspended chandelier was my favorite piece!

and every place I visit requires a stop and sometime a photograph in the ladies loo
this one has to be one of the most spectacular red mirrored walls, mirror, baccarat chandelier red ceiling and silver basin

this gorgeous wall and Bacarat Chrystal is in the toilet stall.

A palatial pee room!

and below I believe its the men's room - I took a peak but not a pee.

The beautiful balcony set for a meal by mirror!

and the sweet electric candles.

the private dining room in the Baccarat Restaurant - stunning!

Dont you love the padded ceiling?

and the main dining room - amazing! rough brick with cameo portraits, Baccarat chandeliers and Baccarat at every place setting.

The absolutely stunning giant Baccarat chandelier in the fabulous stair well.

Every Baccarat Chrystal Chandelier has one red chrystal with the logo.

I wish I could have take the rooms full of amazing items for sale. and so beautiful.

At the bottom of the stairs a different kind of seat

with another stunning standing candelabra.

and down the hall to the exit with shiny carpet...

Lovely.
I will post the next Philip Stark visit in the next few days...

Open up the doors to a new year

2010-01-05T23:58:00.000-08:00

Whenever I go to cities or town with rich details I cant help taking photos of all the doorways. A mirror into our lives. The colors rich and textured with history, meaning memory.
All these doors I took this past year in Paris and in the North of France by the ocean. Every home has a door, every door should be worthy of its home, its owner.
If you dont have a good door add character with color and detail.

New Years Evalicious

2010-01-01T14:47:00.000-08:00

Dancing the night in to welcome 2010

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T15:15:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the feast that life is this new Year - may 2010 be filled like a picnic hamper of taste, sensation and excitement!

Halloween Finery

2009-10-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

Spotted this fabulous hat that seems to combine all the good little girl gone bad visualry.
Vintage and Vogue in Downtown Campbell, CA
Couldn't help peering in and getting caught up in the mood.
I have three potential dress up events and I need to tear the cobwebs away from my fear of looking stupid. I always go as a witch.
But which witch is Witch ?

Decorating the lair is the fun part - do you do it pretty? or nasty ?
Halloween has the potential for us to decorate brothel cool or prim horreur.

I love that juxtaposition.
Who is your Halloween Persona ? and in what room does it reside?

2009-08-14T21:42:00.000-07:00

My deck of Color Personality from House Beautiful
I joined in when I discovered Maria's delightful post
choices made from my own photos

1. First Color you see in the morning?
Blue, although I admit the dog is not always wearing glasses.

what color are your eyes- Green for the most part sometimes blue and sometimes hazel so somewhere in here

what color do you wear the most

shades of blue with black & browns

4 what color do you never wear ?
maroon

5 what color do you wear when you want to feel sexy

bronze

6 what color gets you the most compliments
silver grey

7 what color is your lipstick
red orange

8 what color was your living room when you were growing up?
Blue and white -white chairs, white terazo floor, white flokati rug, white marble tables & white metal cut out round coffee table. Fresh blue flowers in a gorgeous Italian vase. Blue and white fabric cushions.

9. what color was your bedroom when you were growing up?
Ever changing depending on my mom's latest inspiration.
Last one I chose was shades of Green with white and black accents. I inherited a real Zebra skin for the floor.

10. what color are your sheets?
blue and white- doing this color quiz makes me realize I am very boring - all my colors are the same.

11.what color was your favorite crayon as a child?
red like the door to the Baccarat Mansion

12. what color is your car ? dark grey, a snarling beast that rides the grey tarmac.
Rather like these beasts from a door in Paris.

13. what color was your prom dress ? - we actually never had a prom - I was in a college type school.
But if I had had a prom I would have worn a dress in this rasberry shade with blackberry accents and trim. I am pretty sure.... I had a raw silk suit in this color and I loved it.

14. favorite gemstone
Emeralds represented here by a Daum piece. Jewels for the home.

15. Favorite flower ?
Peony- just love the layers like a dress- and these bright reds and pinks are stunning.

16. what color makes you the happiest, so many - I love color
but for purpose of this exercise - yellow

17.what color depresses you? Tuna pink like my appetizer on the plane. shades of ugly.

18. what color calms you?
white/ blue/ green

19. what color makes you grind your teeth? burgundy with teal green combo
pepto dismal pinks & yellows
I will spare you the upset.

20. what color would you like to try but are scared to ?
A painted wall of colors would be fun to try - I am scared I would get sick of it.
Good for the hall. When I own my own home again maybe I will do it.

colorburst in the street

2009-08-13T21:50:00.000-07:00

Sunday in Paris, a million pictures to inspire, & charm.
The casual pairing, that somehow works.
I pressed my nose against the shop windows of Merci, but it was closed, for August Holidays.
Still live plants and flowers thrive behind the glass.

Old farm House

2009-08-12T22:24:00.000-07:00

Just back from France. It was a perfect trip. We spent time in the country to celebrate my belle mere & belle pere's 50th wedding anniversary, time at the seaside- oh the houses! and a few days in Paris. absolutely blissful. Visual Jam everywhere.
Naturalement, I took lots of photos and here is an old farm house in what they call a fauclette. Not even sure how to spell it or what it would be in english, where generations of my husbands family lived. It was a real treat to visit and to exclaim at the wonder that generations of family members lived and farmed here. My husbands great grandmother, was born in this house. and it still stands with history in its breath.

Weekend roses

2009-07-11T00:25:00.001-07:00

Lovely early evening roses

Get inspired by Safari

2009-07-07T22:26:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Africa was a magical experience.
When I look at the work of Stephen Falke I am pulled by all the elements that touch my soul and of course by his mastery of the two worlds.

Really its all about materials, texture line color and insouciance.
Some fabulous ways to copy this look now

this lamp looks african from West Elm

A rug with texture and African pattern & colors also from West Elm

Sheer drapes from Pottery Barn

cool lights from Vivaterra

Use one of Falke's signature walls to emulate your statement see below- baskets, masks or anything else that appeals- see on Desire to Inspire blog

Find some interesting tables, like this one below from PfeiferStudio

What do you think is the essential Safari element?

Laundry Room blues

2009-07-03T00:37:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder why the Laundry Room can give you the blues?
All those shiny white appliances that show all the dirt, the white walls, the white floors and those brown cupboards... does functional mean ugly ?
This is a small room that can be enhanced with color.
Decorating ideas and quick fixes are plentiful.
Like this quick change we created for a House Staging on a budget
we took this

to this

Color makes a huge difference. Consider the other items in the room when choosing color schemes for your laundry room.

Art and accesories play an important role in bland functional spaces.
Notice how the blue in the painting pops right out, against the green paint.
The green also tones down the red in the wood.

Fun signs work well in the clean working environment

Laundry Drop Pants Vintage Tin Sign
and I like this sign 'Do it Yourself' from Buy.com

When deciding how to decorate your laundry room, look at some examples -
like this totally cool laundry room from Sarahs house

and here is a whimsical idea from the delightful home blog

A laundry room if in its own space, is a delightful chance to be bold or wild. It will give you pleasure every time you enter, to do a chore that never ends. Whatever your style country cottage to bohemian chic - you can create a little corner of wonder, to enhance your everyday moments. What do you think?

What would your ideal Laundry Room be ?

luscious Peonies

2009-06-28T17:00:00.000-07:00

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color texture and beauty.... love the plump generous Peonies
Great colors for walls or furniture.

Field of Poppies

2009-06-27T00:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend - I love this shot, taken on my way home from a meeting this morning - a house in Palo Alto CA - feels like the countryside.

Sheer Happiness

2009-06-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

Summer is here. Its time to let the breeze blow through the windows
Lift up the heavy drapes and let the light in.
Goldie is showing me the way. Rubbing her back on the glorious green grass.
Let the Summer Decorating begin, with Sheer Happiness.

I love lace curtains - terylene they used to call it back home. Everyone had some flimsy drapes, hanging on stretched plastic coated stretch wire, hooked into the window frames with little cup hooks.
For Privacy. I think they meant so they could look out & spy without you knowing..........

Here are some ideas to get you start on decorating your living room, your bedroom.

Or in the doorways in between. How about learning How ? to make a door curtain with records.
You can do it yourself - check out, if you are looking for that retro look. Instructions by Veryirie

Or this pretty lace sheer from Country Curtains for that romantic look

and I just love the happy checks on this vintage fabric sheer made by Fab5

Be creative and reuse or repurpose fabric, or items like stones or shells.
Look for amazing finds like this cheesecloth curtain found in grandma's attic, (not my grandma) but I guess its one of those HGTV makeover moments. Here is a true life makeover picture, according to Giapet39 on flicker. Love this dreamy Kitchen window - I am in Sweden.

Try some of the amazing window films on the market like this incredible design from 2Jane,
save money and save space - its in the window on the window - and you dont need hardware.

Stone and string from can be used in doorways and windows. I would be hesitant about using them in the doorways - could get tangled up and knocked out from the stones.
In the windows they could be delightful.

Now go forth and create summer moods in your living room, dining room, bedroom or even the office. Can you lighten the mood inside?

The door knob is a gargoyle

2009-06-14T22:31:00.000-07:00

While visiting at the the Sofitel in Redwood City today, Goldie was happy to be surrounded by nature
and the possibility of food. She did get some calamari bits thrown her way.

The gorgeous gates at the entry as well as this grand and fabulous Chihuly light, made me reflect on the importance of sweeping your guests in, while considering the elements of style from the outside in.

What do your front door details say about you?

Found these beauties at Handles Accesories these are Black Granite Lydia
where they have quite a collection to suit.

Not just modern metal but also some Dragon Handles - check out those choices.
Shapes and surfaces to make a shopper smile.

And a proud house owner always matches her mailbox to her handles.
Found this one Blomus Signo locking letter box at All Modern
Whatever your home style is make sure the front door gets the point across, and gives your guests a warm hello, with a style that is focused and well blended.
Color, texture and thought- can go a long way to welcome visitors. and hopefully scare away unwelcome door knockers.....

and what about the light ? We all need a little guidance by light
found this lovely light at the same place, and I love the dreamy quality.
Not too bright, after all every house needs some soft romantic light to cover the ravages.

Foscarini - Havana Outdoor Pendant Lamp

Add a piece of garden sculpture - to catch the visitors eye as they come doorside.
like this beauty photographed at Frank Lloyd Wrights Scottsdale residence.

A fountain that has sound and texture, to contrast with the smooth modern look, helps to soothe the most frantic guest. Spray away the rudeness with mellow water sounds. If you are able, choose a floor or paint the cement that compliments all your other elements.

Numbers have value and are part of the package - so take that into account when shopping.
Sometimes your old digits just need a spray of paint.
Found these at WestOn Letters Helvetica Italic Bronze Patina, where they have a wide selection for all tastes.

and the trusty little door mat is a must to wipe feet and dust before entering the hallowed hall of home. Did you know that people have written articles about delightful doormats? Not sure if they mean people or shoe mats but I found this one that makes me happy at Grounded modern living: its a chilewich spun vinyl doormat

Now that the front door is squared away, its time to lie down on the patio furniture with a lovely drink in hand.

Flowers and Fruit

2009-06-08T22:11:00.000-07:00

Floral arrangements and fruit add some flair and fun to any dinner or table.
Color is key.
Lime green with white or pink are fresh looks for summer.

Be creative with bowls and flower shapes and colors.
Think of flowers as an accessory in your home.

Transform an indoor space, cheaply with bright color.

Dreams Happen

2009-06-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

Stanford Shopping Center hosts the Dreams Happen Play Houses, Designed and built by a variety of local talent, the monies collected from this goes to benefit Building Together Peninsula.

I visited early one morning before the shops had opened and caught a couple. and some Stanford flowers - always fabulous. The cotton panties sold out sign caught my eye - is that possible ?

all panties sold out. That would be hilarious. or pretty sad.

roses in bowls

2009-06-04T23:08:00.000-07:00

Goldie is ready to relax and enjoy some special moments - the simplest items are often the most delightful. Soaked in meaning and memory. Goldie and I adore visiting Corrina, with all her wonderful wares and roses, roses roses. and Henry wagging his tail, bearing old shoes and crying with joy - visitors have arrived!

Garden chairs before and after

2009-05-31T20:02:00.001-07:00

I caught this view on the freeway, driving home from a client. Seems so hopeful, I wanted to share.
I did promise the reveal of the garden furniture,
so here is a glimpse of the old - I painted this garage sale find three years ago in orange

and here is the table now

and the chairs

I love the bright hope and energy of the new colors!

a Question of Pleasure

2009-05-27T22:08:00.000-07:00

Dog resting. No matter how hard and unwelcoming the surface, a dog know hows to relax.
This boy is awaiting his owner outside the Tipsy Pig in San Francisco.

we are all celebrating Summer!

Finally the hot weather has arrived, and I am in the mood to recreate some pleasure seating in the garden and enhance the moment of homecoming.
The orange set is fading and cobwebby. The walkway is boring and pitifully flower poor. This past weekend I decided to buy a bunch of pots and plants and create an array of potted plants. Funny thing about words and language. When I first came to America, I used to say pot plants and people thought I meant the type of plant you smoke. Now I carefully remember to say potted plants. Which makes me think of potted shrimp (terribly English & picnic in the garden)
Which makes me think how fun it is to create picnic spots in ones own yard.
On a blanket, a rug or with chairs. Much more civilized dont you think?

and this set above outside Anthropologie in Palo Alto, looks so inviting. I feel ready to sit with friends and have an ice-cream sundae.

this floor would be fab in the yard, to rest a patio set, spied this at a cool coffee shop, in a historic building on Ramona Street, Palo Alto.

Here are some other fun ideas to liven up the back yard living room, and next week I will reveal my "Transformation"

Think about how you can use your existing patio furniture and add some fun accessories,
to set up your perfect picnic hideaway - without leaving home.

A colorful rug can add so much to a concrete floor or hard dirt like this fun rug
from Patio Shoppers

What about an interesting table? like this one below found on Etsy and created by
Timothy Adams Designs

a cool light like this one below

some outdoor art
like these Reflect Spheres or Breeze pinwheels - same old stuff with a modern twist

and no garden spot would be complete without some plants, like these lush beauties

Enjoy!

Its a dog's life

2009-05-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

Its a dogs life - Goldie is ready to party and play. She is trying to entice us with the lovely appealing tennis ball. Its true what they say man or beast - one woman's treasure is another's trash. And so it is with rooms in one's home.

Now that summer is upon us, it feels like time to refresh and renew.
Time to party in the garden or have friends over to enjoy the moment.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. which puts me in mind of Decor to adore's salute to Mom's and the rebirth of the apron - delightful post - and here below some fabulous vintage aprons from Jessica Steele

Remember when you are dressing your kitchen for success it all depends on what you are planning - Kitchens for show obviously require all the trimmings. And if money is no object you can have what your heart desires :

Like this picture below found on a search for a fabulous kitchen on a BBC show - a fridge filled with champagne. I am sure Robin Leach would be overjoyed! as they say - "Sweeties, its essential to show off the detail - the more expensive the better "

If your budget runs to much smaller options then sometimes you have to "make do"
or just do what you have to make- delicious foods.

I have discovered since living with a very talented & accomplished cook - that what counts is not the tools but the skill of the worker. When I cook I use all the pots and dishes, and when lovely hubby works his magic - he hardly uses any pots.
however a big part of being in the kitchen is how it looks.

Recently I had the opportunity to prove my prose.
A friend had a kitchen that she was upgrading only with new stove, dishwasher and microwave.
The rest would be fudged with the lovely illusion of color. Old black and yellow appliances swapped out for silver & white.
below kitchen before

Her last attempt at color, had not been as successful as hoped for.
Choosing color can be traumatic
So she called me in to roll the color dice.
I was delighted to get involved. I am better at color than cooking!

Besides coming up with color for the walls and cabinets, I also told her to save the handles and repaint the dated bronze silver. Since the floor was staying, I took that into account when we decided on the new look. the cabinet doors were removed and the hinges replaced with new silver ones. The lights were replaced with more modern ones from Ikea. Other than that it was paint & elbow grease.
below kitchen before

My last instruction was to paint the ceiling silver.
Well, my client is a brave soul and although she was nervous, she went for it. Bravo!
Now she says the silver ceiling is the icing on the cake. Even lovely hubby noticed the ceiling.
The result is smashing! Inviting warm and very much a reflection of her taste.
The family love the new look.
The food is the same delicious fare, but the surroundings are more palatable.
below kitchen after:

Paint does a body good. and
It does a kitchen wonders.
below another shot of kitchen after:

so my lovelies, its time for me to lay my head down, dream of treasures for my kitchen.
Its all in the details.

Enjoy

Dogs celebrate life

2009-05-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

Dogs driving - seen in San Francisco.
& to honor mums day - more dogs.

Romantic endeavors

2009-05-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

"Sleep, perchance to dream" as Shakespeare declared - every creature needs a place to lay their head.
Like Goldie, who is curled up head resting on paw pads, to create a soft pillow.

Indulge the Romantic you
The Bedroom is a great place to get away from it all.
Basics include a good bed, excellent lighting and perhaps a chair to curl up in.
here are some ideas mixed up with some Home and Garden photographs from the Conde Nast collection:

Scenic designer William Riva transformed his child's bedroom into an enchanted forest for the holidays. Otto Maya photographed the exquisite area for the December 1955 House & Garden.

Be bold in the bedroom- color is an easy way to create a mood
Use the apricot heart of a rose you love, or a deep inky blue sky that brings peace floating to the surface.
A painted ceiling can be magical.

Items for a man's bedroom

A series of men's bedroom accessories, including wool blankets, a hanger, a pencil cup holder and an ashtray, were photographed by Geoffrey Baker for the January 1948 House & Garden.

Fabric is sensual
Not just color here, but texture, pattern and type of fabric can be used to changing the space dramatically & create mood:
Use behind the bed, to create statement. Cover a headboard or drape from floor to ceiling.

Rochas bedroom

The September 1950 House & Garden, - the bedroom that couturier Marcel Rochas designed for his wife and himself. André Kertész photographed the room, which features wall murals in the style of the eighteenth century, a high ceiling painted light blue, and a bed draped in icy blue-white satin.

Texture & color add DRAMA!

Bedding that coordinates, ties the space together.
Avoid too many pillows or lots of small items.

Size Counts.
When choosing your bed frame the scale of the piece should be taken into account.
Dont crowd the space. Leave room for walking.

Understand your needs:
eliminate clutter and pare the space down.
Less clutter means more tranquility.

Unify
Paint all the pieces of furniture one color to unify. Reduce the clutter to clean lines and simple elements. Make sure the furniture is comfortable.
Organize your essentials with containers like baskets or trays.

Speak to your romantic soul.
Art is an important element in a bedroom. Hang pieces that are joyful and nourishing.

The cover of the May 1935 House & Garden was a vision in violet. Anton Bruehl photographed the still life of pansies.

Creating SPACE without leaving home

2009-04-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

Goldie is looking at possibilities - she is close to the AHA moment.
Since the Sun is shining and it feels like summer is getting closer,
now is the time to tackle that outdoor space

Case Study : Real Back yard Dilemma

We turned a tired cement patio area into a charming, relaxing outdoor room, giving our client a bright and sunny additional living space:

Our client Jasmine had outdoor space that desperately needed some design help.
The question that often stops people in their tracks is "How can I fix this ?"

What : The area was a nice size but lacked charm.
Conditions:Budget was a key element.
Already owned:
Positives: white metal patio set that she had inherited
couple of striped pillows and two red Andirock chairs, a garden set, on sale, on hold at a local box store. A couple of pots, and existing built in awning.
Negatives: An ugly shed and a few redwood furniture items that had seen better days.
A mix of cement and aggregate floor not in great shape.

What did Jasmine want?

A patio to enjoy the good weather, a place to expand her living space & a lovely french feel.
Without spending a lot of money.

First item on the list - more comfortable and practical seating.
The set Jasmine had found was versatile and fabulous. Deep bronze with blue cushions.
We told Jasmine to go for it.
The patio set was serviceable and attractive. Our solution was to paint the set to match the new patio lounge set, and tie it in using color.

The shed dilemma was easily solved. We loved the shape and suggested some yummy green and blues, with gray for details.

To hide the utilitarian look of the windows we had our clients add shutters.

We gave Jasmine a shopping list and a chore list.

The family worked hard, cleaning up painting and shopping.

The revitalized patio set looks slick

and Voila - hard work and focus is rewarded!

I just adore how the shed suddenly becomes a destination and how the shutters finish of the windows. The outdoor rug anchors the patio set on the concrete, breaking up the cracked grey surface. The metal lanterns await hanging, and add a European flair.
A space transformed

View from under the covered awning, after Lift Your Spirits Home Transformations was done

We created this cozy spot to read and enjoy the outdoors. It's a great idea to create a few seating areas, to enhance the use and charm of the space. Perfect for one or two. Lemons from the tree with leaves wrapped around the basket handle, add a rustic touch.

A real find for us was this old table stand. It had been stored in the shed, waiting to be tossed.
Now it makes a elegant plant holder, and the wrought iron curls match the awning legs.
Find some fun elements at discount box stores, your local garage sale or the neighborhood Goodwill store, like we did below. Get the color moving around the area. Create distinct groupings.

The versatile patio seating looks inviting and makes entertaining a breeze.
We used what Jasmine had, including a galvanized bin. Upside down, it becomes a plant stand.

I love the new patio, and how it integrates the outdoor areas, and so did our clients.
The biggest reward for Jasmine?

She was grateful to have us keep her on track, to achieve her backyard dream.

Jasmine penned this note :
"I absolutely love what you did with my backyard, especially the addition of the bright color. It's now one of my favorite places to sit with a cup of coffee and return phone calls."

the reward of a job well done is to sit in the sun!

Outdoor ROOM

2009-04-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

Summer seems to be here - the heat is rising !

Suddenly all the heavy clothes and dark and cluttered rooms are unbearable.

I was lucky enough to spend a couple days in Chicago. I am on the Board of IRIS -The largest and only non profit organization for International Redesigners and Stagers.
We have an incredible group of dedicated, passionate women who sit on the board, and it is a privilege to share this experience.
In between meetings and meals, and lots of decisions, we had time to be inspired by an amazing town, and friendly people.

And just like Goldie demonstrates above - when the heat rises inside its time to head out to those outdoor spaces.
Art, Color and function all play a role. The sky, ground and trees create the walls, floors and ceilings. What can be more delicious than a carpet of cool ground cover under foot?

A space is transformed by the placement, form and color. To create impact think outdoor art - The joy of coaxing a smile of surprise, from those that wander in.

Breathe deep and enjoy the magic smells and tastes that dazzle the eye - below I have assembled a couple of shots, from the many to make you think of how to add Drama to your simple or magnificent plot of land! Its not in the flick of the wrist, rather in the bold move of creating your own or buying a clever piece or two. And rustic junk can gain you points as you charm your acquaintances with your stylish wit and clever hands!
That old ugly piece, sitting discarded, is begging to be recreated into a conversation piece.

Chicago is a city with planning, somehow the air flows around the buildings and outdoor space and art rises with joy and variety! Space that allows room to move and to enjoy are key elements to a successful room outdoors. Sweet smells, comfortable seating, and shade are desirable too.

So start putting your elements together, to make the most of living out doors, without leaving your home.

More pictures and ideas to come.

Necessary belongings

2009-04-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

Transitioning from old to bold

What happens when you think about Moving? Is it all too much or is it an adventure beyond compare.

Finally you have the chance to shake off the dust of Unwanted collectibles like this frothy Dresden lace porcelain piece Dolores, from the Irish Green Lace Collection selling on Ebay

Are there memories you can lose ? Like this 19th century collectors print below.
perhaps its gathering dust in your boudoir? Would you rather not recall those nights or do you wish it had pride of place in your entrance hall.
Maybe you need to think about framing or adding more prints to your collection

the pale and soothing tones of blue and green to help remember why
you let it gather dust.

can you convert some item to cold green cash?
Is there a way to enhance the way you want to live?

Perhaps improving the view from the window like my friend who has this to look at from her kitchen window would be your way of moving.

who would not be delighted ?
senses reeling from color & composition
and places to find peace and tranquility.

Is it time to dump the old tea trolley or is this the perfect time to turn it in to a wonderful drink and snack station?
Does this Briarwood tea cart bring back sweet memories?
It certainly reminds me of when my mom would pile on Royal Albert cups and saucers with golden spoons, and matching cake plates and dainty napkins
An array of delicious and tasty cakes and biscuits that made it hard to choose which cake to bite into.
and the silver tea service that was brought out for guests with a giant sugar bowl.
I remember the colored sugar grains large and oh so pretty that somehow made the tea taste funny.
the memories long gone, but the tea trolley lingers on.
Now I would paint it a bright color and stack on the glasses and bottles, for a fun cocktail hour or family fruit mix.
Little cheese straws or thin crackers and toppings
Ice and tongs

How about adding this fabulous ice bucket to the mix ? As seen in Lamp Lust.
and who can resist the name ? The Chiller - rechargeable color changing wine chiller.
Every home needs one of those (Not for the faint at heart)

Moving in up or down - or hanging around with less, is a challenge that requires thought and time.

Time to sift through memory and space, separating the necessary from the desired, the loved from the practical. The beautiful piece that sings from the items that screech.

I had the chance to visit a different version of the home I grew up in - the house is different, but the furniture and ornaments are the same. Every time I wonder around gazing at all the memories in glass, porcelain and dust, wondering, if I could choose, which items would I take to my dessert(sweet sweet place) island - the place where I would bring only what I love & cherish.
The true sweet dessert of what matters.
This piece below is one of my all time favorites. I love the glaze on the ceramic and the exquisite work of the piece. I would be happy to take this memory from my mother's house - if I had enough wrapping bubble and room in my overflowing suitcase......

Transitions: Creating the home you love with his stuff

2009-04-03T15:58:00.000-07:00

The wedding bells have rung and the honeymoon is done
Now you need to transition your life with his,
to create a blended house hold.
Goldie is ready to hang her hat!

The man cave is moving. That mountain of inherited comfy couch, that has taken your beloved's shape, is big. So big that it fills the room and renders you speechless.

couch found at Kijiji

Perhaps he has holdovers from a past marriage, or relics from hanging out at the local watering hole, or visiting Hawaii.

found at Hawaiian Gifts

Perhaps she is awash in doilies & a collection of porcelain pieces.
check out this cool doily from Best Doilies Shop

You did say for better or worse, and suddenly your place is looking a whole lot worse.

How can you find a meeting place.
A way to meld the good(your stuff) the bad (his stuff) and the ugly (definitely his stuff)?

There is a way, and it need not mean starting over with all new furniture and knicknacks.

First determine the use of your room.
What are you planning on doing in there ?

Check out the dance cards at BettysShopORama's Shop

this dancing couple found at Kitschandcurious's Shop

Next figure out what items of furniture you need
Then the fun begins.

What sofa will work in the space ?
Perhaps you can take turns to pick items.

That way you both get to choose and loose.

Transitioning well involves displine and a sense of humor.
Remember this is only furniture.

The most important items to consider are size, color & function.

If the table is ugly but the right size perhaps paint will be your friend.

check out these fun painted pieces from Bradshaw Kirchofer

Accessories do not only make the woman, they also make the room.
check out BeeLine Mid Century

Below, a fabulous interior in home of Barbo Grandelius (Antiquarian and Decoratrice)
and her husband Göran Peterson. taken from the blog
Euroantique Market
amazing stuff

Be focused and brutal in weeding out things you hate.
Art work placement and choice is key

Janey Garnet Collage from her Etsy Shop

Make sure you can achieve all your objectives.

remember to leave room to walk

and let the room reflect the best of both of you.

If all else fails, hire a Redesigner to do it for you - it takes away the stress!

call me - I would love to help you set the stage for your new life and love.

Happy creating in your new home.

May all the furniture and decorative bits be pieces you both love.

below french couple from Noodle and Lou fun and colorful artwork with heart.

Celebrate your marriage by co-mingling with style.

RED shines bright

2009-04-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

Goldie looks on and sees RED

red can bracelet, and earings above love this stuff from adaptivereUse
and below incredible fabric from Volksfaden

Red is the color of LOVE and Anger
Happiness and energy.

It makes you laugh, it brings words to the fore
There is merriment in red

Explosions of color

2009-04-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

Inspired by all the rioting color of Bright week, I want to add to the air merriment
so here are some colorings picked up on my travels with Camera: ORANGE influence
Even Goldie is feeling energy with bright orange lobster.

Fireworks at Montreal Fireworks competition, Beaded & entranced at the bead store Bauman's Biscuit Factory, Doorway in Paris, Lunch at the Olympia Cafe Kalk Bay, Cushions at Modern art Gallery Kalk Bay, Peppers at Rangis, Paris, Chihuly Glass art exhibit, San Francisco

Check it out at ConcreteandHoney - you will be dazzled.

BRIGHT week here I come

2009-03-31T08:52:00.000-07:00

If this pic doesnt get your creative juices flowing green - more will follow.
Bead Market at the Biscuit Factory in Salt River, Cape Town - visual honey on my visit

A fabulous idea from a woman with a wonderful EYE see all these pics to spit and polish YOUR day! Check it out at Concretehoney.

Bright Week. happiness & lots of amazing visuals

Thank you Nicola.

Making an Entrance

2009-03-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

Summer Joy captured in Kalk Bay, South Africa, looking up to the hills or down to the ocean.

We are almost into April. 2009
and spring has sprung, the grass is riz.

Goldie has been out in the yard, digging, rolling and keeping her eye out for other furry folk.
as you can see in this photo, Goldie is all about enjoying life, and wearing hats, or eating hats.

Since she is outdoors, and the sun is shinning, I decided to move on out and mow the lawn. It was getting pretty wild out there. So I was out cutting and mowing, and thinking about how lovely it is to entertain when the weather smiles.

Entertaining at home is the new IN place to be for meals. I read all about it, all over the big wide web. So I decided to explore ways to go about making an Entrance.

First impressions count, or so the cliche goes. and Cliche or not, its all true.
What better way to get people to sit up and notice your style, but with a brightly painted door,
a cool seat, or some wild art. Or all three.

None of these changes need to cost. Sometimes you just need to move things around.
A bit of paint can do wonders, and it is a cheap fix.
Fabric strips can make a colorful door curtain, old plaques or mirrors on the wall add interest.

And a couple of stylish items I ran into on my trip, down south, got me thinking.

Its all about the details.

How about fabulous eye candy for the soles ?
A new door mat - I spotted this one at Cost Plus Website.

and look what else there is to capture the imagination before crossing the Threshold :

another key element in making a statement is Numbering with style,

I spotted this on my way to the airport in my home town Pretoria:

make a statement by creating a colorful pathway, this one spotted in Kalk Bay, Cape Town

If you have gates, or if you have a place to hang gates,
look what fabulous things you can do with these:
a gate in Kalk Bay, captures my heart

and here is one that is pretty and functional in Fresnaye, Cape Town

a chair or some plants add whimsy and color, this one below I spotted in Del Mar, CA
what a clever way to repurpose a broken chair!

the simple folding chair below spotted in Mountain View, Pretoria

add some color with plants, spotted in Del Mar, California

or some fabulous art like these painted ostrich eggs

add some seating like this amazing grouping spotted in Johannesburg Airport, on my way out,
too bad I couldn't fit it on the plane, in my hand luggage:

There is a simple way to make your doorway charming and inviting:
Add some color and some items you love.
Group for effect.
Leave some empty spaces
Create a meandering path to wander down.
Add seating, lights, texture and art.
Then invite some friends over for fresh lemonade & cookies, or cocktails and nibbles, to admire your handiwork.

Below is an example from a client :

The before shows Safe & BORING

THE AFTER :
The front door is painted green to match the letters
The bench has acquired Red and green cushions (OSH), above the postbox we place a metal plant container with fake ivy (TJ Max)
The client; wrote to tell us how some blue birds had made a nest and were coming back and forth to feed their babies.
To break the window, a lovely white std Gardenia(OSH) in a red pot,(Target) with an inviting red green and orange mat(Target) to add some zing:

Write and tell me all about how you make an entrance and enjoy that wonderful moment when you step into your own oasis!

Inspired to change with small change

2009-03-23T18:24:00.000-07:00

Back in the USA ..my mind is teeming with color and ideas.
I am inspired to make changes after seeing all the incredible ideas and clever artistic creativity in South Africa. Country of my youth, and it is very seductive, still.
Looking at this porch at a sweet spot in Kalk Bay - what a clever idea to wrap fabric around the columns.

How about these fabulous cushions & cover to add some pizazz to your living quarters
lively pillows and some fabric and clever stitching on what appears to be a gray blanket.

Flowers or leaves in an interesting container is another easy way to add energy and prettiness to your home, using the penny jar. see the garden roses and cut flower mix in the watering can.
Clever tricks with paint is another cheap way to add new energy.

This photo above creates a pretty look that is easy to recreate at home, and adds style for pennies on the dollar. I spied this tray at the Biscuit Factory in Salt River.
What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday.
You can create this look with ease using stuff around the house and fill in with a visit or two to a thrift store or a garage sale.

and how about a few new tea towels, not just for trays, but you can create cushions, place mats, cover a pot - I found mine at the biscuit factory at one of my favorite bloggers stalls.
What a treat to meet Heather Moore, in person, check out her blog selling all her lovely stuff - and because I was a reader she kindly threw in a pin - I chose a bird and I love that pin- I am wearing it and it makes me smile. Check out those amazing tea towels and bags & more.
Heather was so cool, and friendly. too bad I got there when everyone was closing up, so I missed out on a slow walk through the stalls. However I did get a chance to stroll through lots of other shops and spend a lovely time in the food market.

Summer Weeds in burnt butter - teatowel

and shop for more amazing items of Heather's.

With clever repurposing of what you have, with some judicious shopping where needed, you can turn your living space into a space that welcomes and embraces you.

Love the home you have, get started on creating that new space with old things today.

Makeover and repurpose, with Art that moves you

2009-03-02T21:24:00.000-08:00

A key element of a space is the art.
More important than the actual content - and I hope you choose art you love, is the how where and why of hanging art.

Hang art at eye level - its there to be enjoyed and should be part of the rest of the stuff in the room.

When you have lots of small pieces place together to make a big impact - just we did here above at a Move-in makeover (the client moved in and we set up the furniture, the art the accessories - place looks fabulous in a few days of moving)

You can group photos of family or photos of your pet or pets.
Here is a classic family photo - Goldie is ready for touring and partying - a perfect picture to usher in the warmer months.

Using found objects or creating your own is another way to liven the walls. I am always on the hunt for thrift store art, interesting signs or even items from nature. There are not enough walls or time, for all that creativity that awakens and awaits...

I took this photo below in an old diner in San Francisco. You could do a series of interesting restaurants, or a row of food or pictures of plates or utensils. In fact in this restaurant, the most fascinating part, for me, was that they have plates from The Whitehouse china collection. What a feast for the eyes. I did try take some plate photos, but they did not come out well.
However plates grouped by style, type or color can also work as wall art. As can kids art, labels, collections or travel shots. Be creative, and enjoy the process, as well as the effect. Even if you are not arty, photos are a great way to find your style.

Below, in a client's home, we grouped a handful of small oils to make a statement. The top picture shows the wall before, with the original art group. The middle oil is large and none of the work is set to advantage.

In this photo above, the After, you see the same wall, with the small pieces artistically placed, to give a richness to the space. The furniture and art now work in unison, to reflect the style of the owners.

In this client's home below, we placed a large Chagall poster on a wall to add drama & color! Previously the wall had been empty, and this poster had been hiding behind a screen. Because the piece is large, and this is a corner that does not get much use, we could drop the artwork low, to really change the feel of the room.

Turns out that dog walking is good for humans too - who knew? I can enjoy the color and form that nature provides, when I take Goldie out for her constitutional. Of course to her, every blade of grass and leaf, tells a story about what four legged creature has passed by, and lifted its leg or brushed against, leaving a trail of smells that seem to delight, and inspire her black wet nose to twitch and breathe in deeply. On one such journey I caught the branches of this white tree against the blue sky. Already leaves are budding where the bare white arms once posed. Actually its pretty funny, me holding the camera, for the perfect shot, while Goldie tugs on the leash, in a hurry to get to that next sniffing pole or to roll on the grass in pet abandon.another one of my passions, or is it obsessions? is food, I love to look at food, taste it, and enjoy it. The best part is taking pictures of all that delicious food - group a bunch of your photos or tear out from magazines and frame or create a collage. This was the waffles my daughter made from scratch in our waffle machine we acquired way back when. I think the waffle maker has been used about twice. But the waffles were absolutely delightful, and I love the contrast of the blue plate and the waffle with berries...looks good enough to eat.
I leave you to ponder on what is on your walls and why. Now that spring is around the corner, perhaps it is time to refresh your nest with new art. Rotate your pictures to change your point of view. Get rid of the pieces that you really don't like.

Art is life, life is art, live a little, with art to inspire you!

Note :I will not be blogging for the next two weeks, but I am out looking for new inspiration.

Pearls of Ice

2009-02-23T21:41:00.000-08:00

The weekend has come and gone and Monday Night is back.
The last week of February.
which has got me wondering about the meaning behind the month.
It so happens it is fascinating lore, brought to us by wikipedia :

February was named after the Latin term februum, which means purification, via the purification ritual Februa held on February 15 in the old Roman calendar. January and February were the last two months to be added to the Roman calendar, since the Romans originally considered winter a monthless period. They were added by Numa Pompilius about 700 BC.

Historical names for February include the Anglo-Saxon terms Solmonath (mud month) and Kale-monath (named for cabbage) as well as Charlemagne's designation Hornung. In Finnish, the month is called helmikuu, meaning "month of the pearl"; when snow melts on tree branches, it forms droplets, and as these freeze again, they are like pearls of ice.

Sheer Simplicity

2009-02-16T23:06:00.000-08:00

Valentines day has come and gone.
I wanted to share my sweet dog Goldie's valentine look - she is ready for LOVE. She is singing the blues cos she has nowhere to hang her bag of bones, love is thataway.

and when I think about Love, I think about what is truly essential in life -its all about keeping things simple and focusing on friendships and feeling good.

Organizing your closets - giving away the excess for another person to enjoy.
Good vibrations all around when you shed the weight of all those possessions.
The unbearable LIGHTNESS of being.

Living clutter free and loving it Having space in the closet where nothing hangs, having drawers that are empty.
Space on the bookshelf and room in your garage to park a car.

a space in the garage to use with impunity.
a camping shelf or a ski area.
Perhaps creating a fantasy room within the garage for the family to play in.
an Art center at the ready.
A stage for shows. or a craft center.

Make room for life, and letting go of all those darn things.

When I was young I constantly foraged for items, longing to pack my life full, with the debris of living and shopping and collecting.

Now, now I long for peace. Expanses of empty spaces. Clean living. Bare cupboards.
I am loving that empty feeling now its gone, gone, gone.

Imagine a closet where you use everything at least once. Once a day, once a week once a year.
Buying a few good bold pieces you love.
Buying what you love, loving what you buy, and asking yourself - can I do be do without all this dough bought stuff.
What could I do with my time, if I didn't have to buy, clean, care, for all my things?

I would have time to create living moments. Moving memories.
I could write a song about being free - having nothing left to lose:
the blues that left me cos I went and threw it all out .....
dont need no more magic tools that dices and slices- just a good bed, a candle and a book.
Ok maybe a couple candles and a good light. The sweet luxuries that are fabulous.

If you had to make a list of what you couldn't live without, what would that list contain?

after all this rain is done I will head for the hills in my head.

Beauty without CLUTTER

2009-02-09T20:57:00.000-08:00

ceramic box by Corinna Mori

"Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful."

William Morris
Father of the arts & crafts movement
24 March 1834 – 3 October 1896

here is a William Morris chair -the true test is the test of time - it is exquisite still.

Gina, my partner and I just did a talk about eliminating clutter from your lives. It was totally fun, with a receptive and engaged audience.
In putting together the talk and slides we used the quote above.

The arts and crafts movement is one of my favorite and I enjoy William Morris' aesthetic.

In fact, when I read the quote, people in the audience gasped -
as if in response to something so profound; suddenly letting go makes sense.

Permission to be tough on what you have in your home.
Real estate is precious, life is hard.
Let go of some of the stuff, and make way for quality.
Quality of life, and quality of objects.

Every object, every moment.

above Pimpernel Wallpaper design of William Morris, still available today, I believe - the beauty of which almost makes me cry.

Funny thing about how when life becomes too complicated, we want to return to a pared down, clutter less existence, as if we are in rebellion from the curlicues of life.
And the simple is so much harder to achieve.

My friend Corinna Mori is a true artist. Every item in her home is simple, and exquisite.
She is a potter.
and her work is sheer poetry.

This container below sings to me:

I want to share some of her pieces because each piece reflects the rule:
Object Beauty

here is another fabulous little pot - they are also so delicate looking, yet rough and bold,
like a skin on the outside, with the soft inner sheen of the interior.
Each piece employing both the natural handmade look as well as a function.

here is a bowl Corinna has in her garden, put to use - as the Arts and Craft philosophy intended - beauty and function at play:

Next Saturday February 21 will be the reception Mainly Clay, at The Main Gallery in Redwood City, California 6-8 pm Show will run February 18- March 22, 2009
if you are around, do yourself a favor and stop by.
Its a group show, so lots of interesting pieces to be seen.

To wrap up
another William Morris paper- simple yet stunning and totally sophisticated
definitely a great foil for Corinna's work.

We use items in our daily lives, to create and do, why not pick the items that please us?
Ordinary is really what is extraordinary about life, after all.

on that note, a spoon -
to leave you with
by carol boyes

Hands, hearts and heads make sense together.

Decorating with love

2009-02-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

How sweet it is! a pink frozen milkshake with the cherry on top. We captured this at Sun City in South Africa on a visit a couple years ago, sitting at an outdoor bar, with a huge dome ceiling overlooking a pool that appeared to be a ruin. Magic, absolute magic. and doesn't this confection look good enough to eat?

Its Tuesday night and I am back pounding the keyboard.
Goldie is up on daughter's bed, queen of all she surveys. Although the witching hour is approaching and Goldie's eyes are very heavy. Not much to do but sleep at this point.
And suddenly the world seems ROSY.

and full of promise.
there is an opportunity to re purpose the gifts and colors of the world around us. Opportunity and Adventure await. in cans of paint or in moving items around.
Decorating is fun. Especially when we reinvent those ideas from the world around us.
Like these outdoor pink cement bowls at Taliesin west in Scottsdale Arizona, - I took some pictures on our visit there a couple of years ago - I was fascinated by the shapes, the colors and the textural contrasts. I love to mix and match not only pattern, but texture too, to create a rich story. Not only when I decorate, or design but also when I dress or create things.

Below is a pink styled quick art piece I created from some found objects and paint to enhance my red pink brick fireplace.

Those red bricks abound all over this area. So many clients' homes have one of these brick fireplaces.....crying out to be saved, enhanced or remade.
Creating items for my foliage and frame piece and put this together. I was entranced by the idea open space and stylized framing.

and here the complete opposite - real art from nature - Peonies in a gorgeous glass vase spied in a shop in Toronto on our trip in July 2008.
My absolute favorite flower. The color, the texture, the naturalness, capture my heart.

on the same trip we visited Montreal - another fabulous city and we were lucky enough to have the opportunity of experiencing the battle of fireworks - countries from the around the world get a night to explode their firecracker power. We witnessed the Australian show. It was thirty minutes of absolute magic. The picture below evokes the drama and amazing color range found in the pink of it all - brilliant!

Wouldn't these colors make a sweet combination in a room?
In fact we did work on a client's dinning room that has those very colors. The colors were there, we changed the accessories to enhance the space:

we used the green and cream artwork to bring out the green in the upholstery, and some modern pieces our client had to create more balance. The only items the client bought were new candles and a stand for the one plate, and three small pieces of green and pink art on the wall across.
Can you spot the differences? Our client could, and she loved how we changed every room in her house, using what she already owned. The three little pieces of artwork were the only purchases she made for the entire home. Think how you can change you home in small ways.
Its all in a flick of the wrist !

Well, I have so many more pink thoughts, and ideas but I will leave you with this clever idea I spotted at Ralph Lauren store in San Francisco

they cleverly combined pieces of rugs to create one big one - it shouldn't work, but it does.
It gave the store a warm inviting feel. Old stuff is still good stuff.

The eye of the needle

2009-01-26T23:35:00.000-08:00

Monday night and its time to indulge my secret moment.
The house is quiet and Goldie the dog is under the desk sleeping the dog's life.
I am surrounded by silence except for the freeway noise like the ocean in the distance.
My passions are design and food and color and books and so many things...being sidetracked into reading other peoples blogs and being amazed and delighted at what they create....
one of my favorite pictures of Goldie - my daughter put together all these Goldie scenes to create a calendar for her dad.

I was going to talk about silver. the color the essence and the history.
I love silver, and I found this totally cool picture to share- a piece of art inside the eye of a needle- the first family celebrates!

a drop of water!

Here is a singing bowl

a silver claw foot tub from Apartmenttherapy.com

the scenery in silver

none of these visuals are mine - but I enjoyed their silver attitude

this post will be continued.
there is a thread of silver linking us all
and life does have a silver thread.
Its mercurial and magic and I want me some of that!
Silver bells and silver walls and all the greys that nature and man made......

Lacy and free

2009-01-19T21:33:00.000-08:00

Summer Snowflake
lace falls open and closed like magic in honor of MLK day
I am thinking how cobwebs and lace can be open and hold you enchanted and free
the lightness of being
to have the space and light to make choices, find your freedom, to live with dignity.
and LACE.
Here is a cobweb covered in snow from Yahoo pictures:

and a fabulous lace covered tree
by Janet Morton - Ward Island Toronto

how about some lace valances from London Lace

or some woven bowls for the dresser - these are so sweet from Berlin's Whimsy
crocheted bowls

or one of the incredible sculptures of Ruth Asawa at the San Francisco De Young Museum

find a lovely piece of lace to embellish a simple pillow or drape

Exquisite maltese lace from the Lace Fairy

or how lovely would some chantilly lace look in black as sheers for your boudoir or to skirt your dolly varden
I had a dolly varden (kidney shaped dresser surrounded by fabric) when I was a child.
Sheers with velvety red spots - I remember that pouffy skirted table with delight
and on top a three piece wrought iron curlicue mirror
check out this choice from Anjoorians Silks

Dream on

a jewel to treasure from Vintage stones

Wild blue and greens

2009-01-12T23:24:00.000-08:00

These ABC tv underwater scenes make me think what a wonderful room these colors and textures would make. I love the color combo. the deep blue, the soft greens, and those creamy colors.
More green and blue to inspire :

a Dale Chihuly fantasy in glass or could be fabric

more of that wondrous glowing glass

Niagara Falls from the shores of Canada

vintage dress from 1950 stephscloset

Green banded blue butterfly

an uncut emerald from south america a huge amount of carats

fabulous feather fascinator from Metro Gypsy

marimekko fabric

Chocolate dreams

2009-01-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

believe it or not this is a chocolate outfit created for a chocolate show. I believe in new yorkNew Year makes me think of Chocolate - probably because my brother in law laurent duchene always sends us a box of delicious chocolates, and this year, he sent his hazelnut truffles. An exquisite, totally delicious, lingers on the tongue taste.

Here is a fabulous dinning room in an old hotel in old Montreal we visted this summer for a drink in their delightful patio. This was the real deal - cobwebs, old brick, dead animal heads.

Besides chocolates we scarf - we also indulge in so much through chocolate: Chocolate drinks
my favorite is real chocolate melted. - this from the Seattle Food Examiner:

French hot chocolate is not like the cocoa powder mixed into warm milk that America is used to. It is also not the Italian chocolate syrup and foamed milk concoction so common in coffee shops. Hot chocolate in France is a serious chocolate experience enjoyed throughout the year but most importantly celebrated during the holidays. Its main ingredient is melted chocolate that is then blended into cream or whole milk. The chocolate contains a higher percentage of cacao. In Paris, hot chocolate is usually served in a pitcher sometimes with a glass of water on the side to offset the richness. - Scott Emerick, chef/owner of Cremant

Cremant's Chocolate Chaud
one serving of French Hot Chocolate

2 ounces of 64% Valrhona chocolate
1 cup whole milk

Heat the milk over medium heat. Once the milk is heated, add the chocolate and whisk to combine. The chocolate will thicken the milk. Serve the hot chocolate in a pitcher and pour small amounts in a cup to sip.

For a special holiday treat, serve with a small cup of whipped cream.

a glorious picture from Merisi's Vienna For Beginners Virtual Postcards from Vienna

and what about

Chocolate candles - I was smelling the ones at Pottery Barn at the check out. Simply divine.
I would love to give you the chance to scratch and sniff right here: doing a little research I found the Chocolate Farm and the candles sound so delicious check them out.

And the color chocolate - so indulgent decadent and rich.
Velvet chocolate. Chocolate walls, or chocolate furniture. Who can turn away a box from Tiffany's with the blue box and the chocolate ribbon.
or a chocolate and Rasberry cake?

Chocolate cake, chocolate pillows, chocolate marshmallows.
Below the Manhattan faux fur chocolate pillow from Heal's

and a brown crown from decorating Idea kid rooms - by Aaron Christensen

Charlies chocolate factory - were the rivers of chocolate not made to dive in?

I think about chocolate accessories. What a yummy thought.

A color that is truly sensual. A room of chocolate furniture - chocolate stripes of milk and dark
accented with silver. To give an edge. or bronzed gold to shine off.

Here is a balcony in chocolate with a rustic chocolate folk art piece from Just Folk - a beautiful gallery we visited in Summerland California. what incredible stuff.

How about this?
Godiva has created a chocolate room - everything including the walls are made of chocolate,the blurb below I lifted from the link:
Talk about the ultimate Valentine's Day stunt! an all-chocolate room constructed for chocolatier, Godiva, is now complete and open for viewing in New York City. The styling mouth-watering room, officially dubbed the "Godiva Decadence Suite," is located in an office building in Manhattan's East Village. Its purpose is to publicize Godiva's annual Valentine's Day competition . As if the room itself was not enough, Godiva also brought in a glamorously-clad Ali Larter, star of the TV show Heroes, to help showcase its creation.

Check out the possibility of winning a night in this room. I dont know if I could last without eating some of it!

A cabaret room is opulent in chocolate.

or another view of the Godiva Chocolate room - which certainly looks as good as it probably tastes!

Any color and fabric is immediately given a sharp edge when teamed with chocolate.
Persimmon & chocolate

Apricot and chocolate, Vanilla and chocolate, Rhum and Raisin paint,
or some chocolate brown wall peel & stick stickers found on amazon.com to give a chocolate feel without paint:

the pull is irresistible. Chocolate is my raisin d'etre!

A joyful fulfilling year

2009-01-01T22:18:00.000-08:00

Here's wishing and hoping your brand new year 2009 will bring an open mind and a full wallet,
a heart full of song and sunshine, and lots of uplifting transformations.

I hear that living a spiritual life is key this year - and every happy spirit needs celebration, laughter & a clearing out of the old.

A visual celebration on the eve of the birth of 2009, in San Francisco's Union square, moments from midnight :

Holiday Magic

2008-12-22T23:45:00.000-08:00

Its almost time for the magic to begin. No matter what you believe, how you celebrate, or what the weather is like, the end of the year is a magical time.

Time to enjoy family and friends, to reflect on what has passed, what you experienced and what your hopes dreams and needs are for the year to come.
We always play out our own traditional customs, spending time with friends and family, eating familiar foods, and feeling the joy and mingled sadness of out with the old and in with the new.

Santa, Father Christmas, Papa Noel, Father Frost or Joulupukki, the Finnish Santa Claus or what ever you call the red clad figure plays a prominent roll in our lives, and I love the jolly old soul although I am a trifle disturbed by the totally boring and old Mrs Claus or whoever she is.
She doesnt get much airtime, but the world is obviously as fascinated as I by the old man in red.

Grandma Claus doesn't seem to be or do much but be the easily forgotten token woman in the background. I long to see a more interesting female figure in this theater of year end holly days.... looking through all the Santa shots I am surprised to learn there are runs & swims & other activities all around the world, male, female, young old and some animals too, wearing red velvet, white fur trimmed outfits, some to get into the Guinness book of records; for the biggest crowd of people dressed in Santa suits, a noble cause, for the hearts and minds that delight in the idea of magic and secret gifts.

Talk about a design statement. Red & White is very sophisticated looking and a great holiday look for your home or your clothes.

here are some of my favorite Santa pics culled from Yahoo photos- enjoy the spectacle and imagine a land littered with Santas ....... perhaps there are no elves only Santas in the making.
Only one gets to be top Santa!

For the love of potato latkes

2008-12-14T09:49:00.000-08:00

Naughty or Nice, whatever your religion or belief, who doesnt love a good pancake party with candles & games ?
That is what Hanukah is all about. The word means dedication. And certainly in the beginning there was need for dedication, sharing & giving.
I am thinking that blue white and silver make a great Party Statement. Pictures courtesy of Martha Stewart website :

Hanging garlands of words, dreidels or spinning tops, Hanukah gelt (money chocolate coins covered in gold or silver paper )

Personally I am thinking the money coins would be so much fun to use as a decorating theme. A money wreath, strands of coins and even glasses and plates piled up high with towers of coins.... sounds rich to me.

Cool Table salt & Pepper shakers from the Jewish Museum shop can add to the holiday feel.
Olive branches in silver jugs, A silver tablecloth with blue and white napkins, blue or clear glasses and silver coins. Tiny silver frames for place holders.

Hanukah is about food naturally - that's where the Potato Pancakes come in, served with apple sauce, and

Suganiot : which are donut balls filled with jam and served warm

both of these foods symbolize the small amount of oil that burned for eight days and created a miracle, as well as bring sweetness and Light

Which is why we use menorahs - candelabra that echo the eight days
here is some ideas the artful and symbolic:

Heron Menorah

CHAIR Menorah & Modern Glass Menorah from the Jewish Museum Shop

Frozen Movement Menorah by Zelig Segal

Michael Arum Olive branch

A variety of shapes and styles to suit all tastes and budgets. Or create your own out of wood and metal or use glass pieces in glasses with candles, as shown in the Martha Stewart picture.

Below is the post from Mixology Monday in its entirety - what is a holiday without a signature drink?

Hanukkah Gelt Martini

The theme for Mixology Monday is “from scratch”. It is getting so close to the holidays I choose to share this simple but fun cocktail created by my brother, who was searching for a good Hanukkah drink.

Unhappy with what he found, he created this shiny treat instead.

So, Michael says:

“Spin your dreidels, eat some latkes, and have some Hanukkah Gelt, a Hannukkah Gelt Martini that is”.
This DOTW original will keep those candles lit”.

Hanukkah Gelt Martini

2 parts chilled potato vodka
1 part Goldschlager

Combine in a shaker with ice, mix gently and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Serve with Hanukkah Gelt - what else?

L’Chaim!

Mixology Monday XXXIII
Holiday Cocktails & Punches

The best part of Hanukah is playing the dreidel game. Many choices abound. The cheap plastic or wood ones also great for creating decorations. A dreidel tree would be a fun centerpiece for your table.

Contemporary Dreidel by Tamara Baskin

The Jewish Museum Hagenauer Dreidel:

The graceful design elements in this intricately pierced 14kt vermeil dreidel are based on a Hanukkah Lamp from the Hagenaur Werkstatte, c. 1920, in the museum's permanent collection.

Enjoy the feast, family and fun & gifting this festival of Lights.

SCOTTISH Tea

2008-12-11T21:25:00.000-08:00

After writing about the Scottish Tea - I decided to re-enact one in my living room.
I was stirred up by the possibili- teas.

Enjoy the pleasurable moments

using only what you have. plus some biscuits or cookies, tea & whisky

My mom's lace tablecloth saved from her trousseau. My tartan scarf bought from tj max a couple years back. A silver icebucket from Goodwill paid $12.00 Crystal glasses from an antique shop on Union in San Francisco about $20 each, my brown earthenware tea pot - a gift from hubby 7 years ago, my english transfer plates another tj max special, candle holders from pier one, delicate bone china tea-cup a discard from a client- free. Hazelnut choclate biscuits from my favorite french pastry shop laurent Duchene (absolutely delish) chocolates from my favorite friends Calibressan, some star ginger biccies from trader joe, my sweet african stars, and some after eights.
The silver teapot jewel was my mothers necklace she converted from a belt buckle more that 50 years ago, that I still wear and love.

An enchanting christmas candle from the Hamburg Christmas market- snowflake gold piece a friend just brought back, my sugar net with shells and crochet trim made in south africa, a mirror -free discard from a client, art deco hot water pot bought at the greek festival 4 pieces for $15, our Carol Boyes man pot, bought on a visit home 10 years ago.

Memories, conversation and discards make tea time, a time to treasure.

Tart up with Tartan

2008-12-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

a cool couch for tartan thoughts from Willam Sonoma Home

“Forgive early, kiss slowly, love wholeheartedly, laugh loudly,” said Yael Raz, “Because life may not be the party we all hope for.”

SO, I am thinking the holidays are nigh and what about throwing a Scottish Tea Party? Life may not be the party we hope for, but we can definitely make more parties & improve our chances.

I have my tartan wrap that I love - it makes me think about celtic jewelery, white blouses edged with crochet & lace, shiny black boots with button hooks, velvet - I am translating this feeling into the perfect tea party.

Domino Magazine December 08 shows a sofa tarted up for the winter, using a couple of plaid throws, and the resident floor zebra with campaign tables.

Doing some research, I discovered that tartans were decorative cloth that were limited by color and design in different areas, using coarse wools. This then led to the creation of clan tartans. Check out this fabulous site all about Tartans.- the Tartans of Scotland. This sounds like the perfect title for one of those science fiction stories.

Did you know there are at least 2800 known Tartans? documented on the site, and all gorgeous.
Here are a couple to wet your appetite- they certainly make me dizzy with delight:

Abercrombie (Wilson's No. 64) Family Tartan WR1043

Scottish Tartans World Register: Galloway
Galloway District Tartan WR1469

Scottish Tartans World Register: Jahore
Jahore District Tartan WR1309

What clan does the tartan you adore belong to ? or head over to a tasty Scottish Food Site to order some figge pudding? Who knew Scot tea is something particular.

For our tea - all you need is a tartan throw or a couple of yards of fabric from your local haberdashery or fabric store thrown over the tea table. I love to serve tea at the sofa, piled high
with pillows :

pillow maker FablesandFoxes

Underneath the tartan have six to eight inches of lace showing. Here you can get inventive.
Old family tablecloths or lace curtains will do the trick. Velvet and or black ribbons. White crocheted blankets ( afghans) Lift up the plaid and attach a brooch in silver - thistles or flowers or animals.
I am thinking that black and white cushions in a bold check or using a cameo inspiration or the silhouette. these ideas can also be used to decorate. A garland of silhouettes with black paper, silver and pearl chains. Black and white botanical prints and drawings.

Check out these fab ornaments and the chance to create your own silhouette pillows, plus buy super prints at Simply Silhouettes or check out the blog http://www.simplysilhouettes.blogspot.com/ perfect to round out your Scott cheer.

ebay cup and saucer

A silver tea service or at least a large tray with handles, a big teapot, cream and sugar containers that echo the feel of "olde worlde charme" , bone china cups.
Mix and match -to your style and your budget. Napkins edged in lace, plates or baskets lined with doilies or delicate odd napkins -found at thrift stores, a garage sale or granny's cupboard, piled high with raisin toast and butter, scones & jam and clotted cream, home made shortbread or the ones in the tartan boxes, a pretty vase crammed with purple heather or some wild looking flowers, orchids or african violets. Handkerchiefs dampened with lavender water. Candied violets. Loose leaf tea. Lots of lovely hot water. Sugar cubes and dainty spoons, and a hot water jug with lid.

Martha Stewart Sugar Cookie Stacks

Crystal real (or just the appearance of decanters) with good scotch whisky and some cut glass glasses. or heavy bottomed ones (funny how you only want heavy bottoms on glasses)

You can pile on the rich but ratty look or even the eccentric charm to emphasize the to the manor born feel.

Go wild - indulge the highlander or the lowlander within. Dress the part and take your guests back to a new world.

Keep a big book of poetry on hand to read out loud.(or to look intellectual)

THE PRIMROSE, BEING AT MONTGOMERY CASTLE
UPON THE HILL, ON WHICH IT IS SITUATE.
by John Donne

UPON this Primrose hill,
Where, if heaven would distil
A shower of rain, each several drop might go
To his own primrose, and grow manna so ;
And where their form, and their infinity
Make a terrestrial galaxy,
As the small stars do in the sky ;
I walk to find a true love ; and I see
That 'tis not a mere woman, that is she,
But must or more or less than woman be.

happy tea drinking... a wee dram of scotch is supposed to improve the tea...

Paper Sticks and words

2008-12-08T10:16:00.000-08:00

This sweet heart above is from words from the heart on etsy.com

Been thinking about the Power of words and the buzz about how happiness is contagious.
Remember the rhyme - "sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never harm me." ?

Of course that is a total lie - words have power. That's why happiness is contagious, and so is misery. But we dont want misery here - only the absence of.
We want to wash the walls in JOY :

here is my sign, above, from the pavement, created from shaped twigs and some little leaves.

This is the perfect time to remember and renew love and happiness. Words hold power and change minds and direction. They are little shapes that shape lives and meanings. Everyone needs a little Expression in their lives :

Here is an idea worth contemplating
a fabulous cuff that does more than just look pretty from

pinkflamingo61

Sign in a store - from a fun clothing mix store in Toronto Canada - talk about encouraging a naturally good feeling - this one makes me think of my yiddisha grandmother.....

Words grow our minds, our feelings and help us to share the good stuff and spread some cheer and happiness around. I love to see how artists and craftists (new word - cant keep saying crafter - sounds like a guy at a sheep farm in Scotland) and below not only a clever use of beautiful papers, they almost look like delicate painted eggshells, and nestled within a word to inspire: BELIEVE

Check out this wreath with paper and words from haru on Etsy, an array of artwords and forms to bring out the thinker or dreamer in us all.

What about creating your own out of found materials even pipe cleaners?
You can hang on the wall with string and branches or like a garland, or hang in the leaves or a xmas leaf garland. Remember spray paint is your friend. Its transforms junk to treasure with one quick swipe.

or try using those from wall words or one of the Etsy artists.

"Greetings Earthling"

" We COME in PEACE" or perhaps

"We come in PIECES"

OR one of my all time favorites

"Whirled Peas"

Easy steps to fast & fabulous dinning style for the holidays

2008-12-04T22:18:00.000-08:00

Expecting company and dont have a clue what to do?

Here are 7 tips that wont break the bank or your stress-o-meter!

1. Plan your meal and your decorating theme.

Match the decor with the food - look at some travel books or magazines at your local bookstore or library to gather a couple BIG ideas....

for example: Moroccan - use a striped fabric with the table cloth. hang above or place some lanterns on the table. Use a big brass platter and fill with candles - place in living room. earthenware plates or simple white ones will work well.

Morrocan tea lights and colored glasses. Big white dishcloths for napkins.
Create a mood in the room with the candles, Moroccan music, small jugs of spearmint leaves, little bowls with water and rose petals or rosewater finger bowls.

2.Look for containers & props your have at home such as lights, candles and little bowls for maximum impact. Flowers or leaves always add a sweet touch. Big colored containers.
Found items can be used to tie napkins, or wine glasses.

3. Keep it simple and budget friendly. Serve the appetizer with the drinks- eg green olive tapenade on small toasts. or breadsticks wrapped with cream cheese and smoked salmon(above).

Create a one dish meal with a vegetable for the main course - Couscous with lamb sausage pine nuts and spinach.

4.A simple fruit salad flavored with herbs or cordial: like peeled orange segments with mint leaves & soaked in orange liquer or flavored with rose water.
Here is a delicious fruit salad served using the fruit shell as containers. An easy artful solution to keep your guests in the mood.

5. Have large jugs of water, and enough glasses for water and wine or whatever beverages you serve. Mix and match from your cupboard or borrow from friends.

6.Coffee or tea in tiny cups with little cookies, piled high or turkish delight.

7. Look around the house for little touches that can echo the look and feel that you are going for.
Dont be a slave to a decorating idea, rather let your imagination soar and find ways to repurpose reuse and reinvent - give your guests a taste of your own style......

Change you can believe in.

2008-11-12T15:33:00.000-08:00

Change is good. When things stay the same and they change; that's even better,
How would you do that?
Its all about using what you have. But toss it up and think it out differently.
Can you repurpose, highlight and fascinate?
Use reduction and chaos control?
In these times of change - wouldnt that be the change you can live with.
Here is a case studies of change:
Client was unhappy with the darkness of the room and the lack of warmth. Plus they had inherited a bunch of beautiful items that she did not know how to make the most of:

The first photo illustrates the before.
We moved the heavy bookcases to the other side of the room to balance out the display case.
By moving the couch to the short wall the room expanded and can breathe.
Happy client has changed her living habits: a warm sunny spot to enjoy, and an inviting room to host guests, see photo below :

BONUS : Nothing was purchased to create this amazing change.