Private Residence - Merida, Mexico

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This room is the bedroom of our client's twin sons in Merida, Mexico. Although their room and the younger boys' room are identical in layout, we wanted to flex a different muscle and add a sense of maturity to the space. At 16 years old, the boys are busy with school and soccer but when they get home would love a place to hang out with their friends. Our client wanted the twins' space to be interesting but much more neutral than the younger boys' room featured here.

Voila! This is the sketch of what the room would look like when completed!

The geometric pattern of this Candice Olsen rug will anchor the space while dictating our palette with its warm grays.

It's important to add variety of interesting textures and surfaces when you're keeping things neutral. This metal chair is fun and adds some industry to the room! This room also has an existing desk between the beds that needed a side chair for studying.

Our client mentioned how much he loved the Jonathan Bench from Oly Studio and I was more than happy to incorporate it into the plan! These guys will sit at the foot of each bed. The tufted cushion adds dimension to the space and pairs great with its hammered metal base.

The heavens opened when we came across this mirror from Oly Studio! It's sculptural and finished in a high lacquered white varnish plus its a great size and gives the teenage boys a chance to check themselves out before the leave the house. What's not to love!

This artwork from Natural Curiosities will hang over each bed creating a visual headboard and I loved that they were similar but still very different, (just like the twins)!

With three metal shelves, this nightstand provides enough surface space for a lamp on top and any other items that the boys might have.

Private Residence - Merida, Mexico

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I was beyond thrilled when we received a call from a fellow in Merida, Mexico who needed some of his home redecorated! I've always been fascinated with this country's rich cultural heritage and how that has influenced its design and architecture over hundreds of years! Our client had recently built a modern home but wanted to add a warmth and history to its interiors. He sent over plans and several photos of the rooms he wanted to address and we got to work! The first room we'll highlight is his two youngest sons. They are like most 9 and 10 year olds, spending their days playing soccer, collecting cars and discovering the world around them. Their room was so fun to design and reintroduced me to being a kid again! Enjoy!

This sketch illustrates how the room will feel when completed.

Next to the entrance of the bedroom we wanted to give the boys a spot to hang their hats and a spot to drop their treasures. The eagle console from Thom Filica is such a fun statement and the Christopher Marley  bug art was a natural fit! All boys love bugs!

The croc inspired rug from Safavieh will anchor each bed and add a level of playfulness to the space.

The existing desk between the beds needed a side chair. I love this Klismos inspired piece from Thom Filicia's new collection. A youthful version of a classic frame!

Ottomans at the foot of the bed provide additional seating when the boys are hanging out with friends and the legs on this particular Oly Studio ottoman are show-stoppers!

The spot table from Vanguard Furniture reminded me of a giant Slinky! Another ode to childhood.

Whether a sports fanatic or a young inventor, I thought that this table lamp, reminiscent of jacks, was a smart choice to light their bedsides.

93 inches by 43 inches!!! Large scaled art is a great way to set the tone of a room. I loved this split alligator and how it is related to the rugs.

This suspended solar system will inspire and ignite young minds and add dimension in the room.

Giveaway - CLOSED

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New pillows are in for spring and one lucky winner will be able to choose one of the three lovely pillows pictured below.

Enter to win by following these rules:

  • - Follow this blog and leave us a comment.
  • - For an extra entry, post this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Just copy the link into your comment on this post so that we can see it and your name will be entered twice.

The giveaway closes Sunday, May 30th and the winner will be chosen at random and announced on Monday, May 31st. Please leave your email address so that we can contact you! Good luck!

Collections

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[photo from Country Living]

I couldn't agree with Mariette Himes Gomez more when she said, "Collecting is an impulse deeply embedded in the human psyche, and the secret of making your treasures look interesting is all in the art of display." Collections can really define you and give your home a strong sense of character. It's the ability of turning ordinary objects into a gallery of your travels and a glimpse into what inspires you!

[photo from Country Living]

[photos from travels to Market]

[photos from The Quilted Giraffe]

I once had a client who collected pewter and had it scattered all about her house. Although charming as individual items, when grouped together it told a fantastic story as the teapots, saucers, spoons, and chargers gathered atop a sideboard in her dining room and became a collection!

[photos from travels to Market]

If you collect plates, display them vertically on a wall or flanking a mirror. If you collect maps and globes arrange them in a way that you can compare different territories and how they have evolved over time. Quantity is an amazing tool when decorating your home. The eye loves repetition and this is when common objects can truly become artful medleys!

[photo from Southern Accents]

[photo from Apartment Therapy]

Keep in mind the most interesting collections usually happen gradually, so there is no need to go out and get it all at once. When you are traveling or even shopping with your favorite people, pick up something to remember the outing by. I love looking around my house and seeing pieces that evoke and memory and your guests will appreciate the interesting voyage your home becomes as they admire your collections!

[photo from Country Living]

[photo from Hall Ready]

Mother's Day

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Mother's Day is one of those special holidays that oddly enough, a lot of women hate. I don't get that. I love it. Not because I want to be adored and worshipped by my husband and two girls and skip out on doing the dishes on Sunday... but because I think of my mother who is like Mother Teresa and the greatest example of motherhood. The warmest feelings well up inside of me when I hear the word "Mother", and the image of my mom in my mind is the most comfortable place I can go to in my head. She is sunshine. So what do you give the woman who gave you life? I've been asked that a couple of times already this week. Here are a few ideas for those of you still searching for the perfect gift.

Give her a memory - Buy a lovely picture frame to frame a simple candid photo, a time in your lives that will make her laugh out loud or quietly take in a moment. I also love a good quote in a frame. You could even quote Mom! Or something that you know would be meaningful. You could put it in the window where she does the dishes with a set of new hand towels.

New sheets! I'm surprised at how many people don't own a pair of real luxury sheets. My favorite thing in my bedroom are by far my linen sheets! You sleep better. And who couldn't use a really good night's sleep (night after night)?

[photo by Ashlee Raubach]

A new rug in front of her kitchen sink. That would brighten up her space! Or in the laundry room? It will make her everyday tasks seem a bit brighter, happier and softer under foot.

[photo by Ashlee Raubach]

A lovely gift would be to organize any closet, pantry, or drawer of hers in the house and notice if there is something that you could buy her to make the process of whatever you're improving better. New hangers, organizers, bins, baskets, whatever!

[photo from Lonny Magazine]

[photo from Real Simple]

Flowers. We have some lovely estate planters at the store that would flank a doorway in a real traditional classical way. Plant flowers or box woods in them and brighten up her entryway or back porch.

Grab a lovely vase and then run to the grocery store or Costco for some off-the-shelf flowers and she'll know it's from somewhere special because it's not contained in a standard way. Don't forget the love not. That's the best part!!!

[photo by Ashlee Raubach]

Mom's are simple. They already love us - so naturally they'll love any way you want to love them back!

We'd love to hear some of your Mother's Day gift ideas. Do share...

Meeting Annie Selke

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I had the opportunity to meet Annie at the High Point Market last week. Many of you are familiar with her work, even if you don't know her name.

Annie is the visionary behind widely acclaimed home textile companies, Pine Cone Hill and Dash & Albert Rug Company, and licensed collection Annie Selke Home. her kaleidoscopic design aesthetic has yielded thousands of creations, from vibrant bedding and whimsical rugs to innovative furniture and upholstery.

We are proud to carry her lines of furniture and bedding at Alice Lane!

You've seen her work everywhere... across the pages of your favorite decor magazines. (Over 300 pages in the past year alone. That's an impressive press archive!)

Dash & Albert Rugs

Pine Cone Hill Bedding

You can imagine my surprise upon entering the section of Annie's furniture gallery within the Vanguard showroom. When I spotted the designing goddess sitting in bed, under the covers, fully clothed... and on the phone! How perfectly quirky! I knew I liked her already.

After getting off the phone, we spoke for awhile about the line and how much we enjoy designing with it. Then it was picture time... She scooted over in bed and I hopped up with her.

In the latest issue of House Beautiful, Annie is quoted saying: "For me, comfort is the greatest luxury." I couldn't agree more. If you're going to go to the effort to decorate or redecorate your home, always insist on the most comfortable seating and liveable fabrics!

Below is a gallery of Annie's work. Many of these photos are taken in her own home.

Town Settee, O'Hara Stick & Ball Chair, Atlas Cocktail Table

O'Hara Stick & Ball Chair

Hayworth Chair

Victorian Platform Bed

Annie's Home

Market's Top 10

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1. LEATHER SLIP-COVERED DINING CHAIRSThese relaxed leather slip-covered dining chairs have an elegance to them that is easily matched in practicality. They have casters, and a breakaway cushion under your legs, so there is not a hard block under the back of your knee. A dream to sit in and look at! Love the look! I've got 6 coming in an off-white leather.

2. COFFEE TABLE FROM BLISS STUDIO This table gets extra credit points by adding the interesting circular detailed pattern in the cutwork on top of the table and continuing it in the base. It's anything but basic!

3. SOMERSET BAY I love this little console from Somerset Bay. It will tuck in about everywhere, in just about any home. It is great in an entry, a hallway, a vestibule, or under artwork in a living room. It's uses are endless and this classic style could work in any home!

4. THE POUF OTTOMAN FROM CISCO BROTHERS - POUF 43 IN ROUND OTTOMAN The Pouf is genius! I am so happy to enlist this new design trick to our repertoire. It's genius. All those seams and pulled tufting on a radial dome! That's a whole lot of figuring. It's useful and fun to look at!

5. VAGABOND TARP PILLOWS Truck tarps cut to look like European Country flags in neutrals. Raw edges, versatile styling and hardwearing. I'll take oodles of 'em!

6. THE LUCCIA SOFA FROM CISCO BROTHERS High end casual - that's the look + the quality and all the design points! I couldn't resist it and you all are going to love it too! She should be here in about six weeks!

7. ANKASA BEDDING We couldn't resist this fashion forward line of amazing, luxe pillows and bedding. Textures, and intricate details I've never seen! All of these impossible details have been incorporated into gowns for academy awards - and they have put their skill to use in this beautiful line for the home.

8. LOUNGE CHAIRS We bought a pair of these chairs. It was an emotional decision! I LOVE everything about these. There's a grace about them. Their creamy tone makes them a bit softer and they could be paired with linen for a causal sophisticated space.

9. OLY STUDIO'S NEW PHILIP DINING TABLE Love at first sight! Absolute design perfection! I can't wait to use this in a project! I already have the client...

10. LOUNGE CHAIRS FROM CISCO BROTHERS I loved looking at them. I loved sitting in them. These chairs are sooo special! I didn't do them in the cotton velvet shown but a crisp linen blend perfect for the warmer weather!

Market Wrap Up

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Hey y'all! Greetings from the South! Adam and I are in North Carolina this week shopping the High Point Market. We wanted to share a few photos (we are taking with our iPhones) of what we are seeing and buying. We are seeing a lot of relaxed looks. Even the high end is more buttoned down and casual. And let me say, what a great way to live. Comfortable. The wood finishes are reclaimed, bleached, carused, pickled, white-washed, and grayed out. The fabrics are soft, natural textures. Linens, wovens, velvets, leathers - attention is still in the details - but overall the affect is relaxed.

We are meeting a lot of the tastemakers down here:

Thomas O-Brien - the man who made Vintage Modern so very popular. He has a line of rugs through Safavieh as well as a new book out called "American Modern". (He signed his book for me and I got a little shy - Here's the photo!)

Thom Filicia (Queer Eye for the Straight Guy) - Just introduced a bold new eclectic vintage-inspired line through Vanguard. You've NEVER seen furniture like this before! I'm stoked to bring it to you. (We talked design with Thom for a good while, I even got a kiss on the cheek when we said goodbye. I dig that guy!)

Laura Kirar introduced a new nature inspired line of accessories and lamps through Arteriors. SO inspiring!

I can hardly wait till it all shows up at Alice Lane so I can share it with all of you! You're gonna love it too!

Maps as Artwork

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What could be smarter than using a map as artwork?

[photos by Nicole Hill Gerulat]

The older the better! Use it as a great conversation piece. Use it to tell your story, where you've been, where your people are from, where you've traveled. It will make your room look smart, give it some history, and a sense of your well-traveled past and hopes for the future.

[photo from Elle Decor]

The other nice thing about maps are, they are usually big, which stretches your eye in a space and makes it feel even bigger.

[photos by Nicole Hill Gerulat]

We've hung this old map of Paris behind one of the beds at the store and it is a room changer! It brought that bed into another hemisphere. It has never looked more gorgeous!!! Try this trick at home in your own space.

[photo from Elle Decor]

Great in a home office, kids bedroom, family room... I have a set of 8 framed sections of one big map in my master bedroom. It's dreamy! I can't think of a room that a map wouldn't add interest and a level of thoughtfulness to.

Giveaway!!!

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It’s that time again but this time we are doing something a little bit different... We are loving all of the great pillows that we have right now and one lucky winner will be able to indulge in this lovely pillow! The coloring and style are so versatile, it will look great in any space!

Enter to win by following these rules:

  • - Follow this blog and leave us a comment.
  • - For an extra entry, post this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Just copy the link into your comment on this post so that we can see it and your name will be entered twice.

The giveaway ends Friday, April 16th, the winner will be chosen at random and announced on Saturday, April 17th. Please leave your email address so that we can contact you! Good luck!

Throw Pillows

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[photos by Ashlee Raubach]

The right throw pillows have solved a lot of design dilemmas for us. They can relate the sofa to the rug and/or other elements in the design scheme. Pillows connect the dots, so to speak. Pillows can animate a boring sofa and bring to life. They can update a room and introduce a new trend. They visually soften a space. Pillows add personality. Pillows can transform with the seasons. Add warmth and texture, or cool it down and add shimmer. They are the jewelry in the room. That finishing touch. That great pair of earrings and big bangle bracelet you always get complimented on - that is what the right pillows can do for your space.

Here are a few very important things when buying pillows: Use down inserts. If your pillow didn't come with a down insert, replace it with a down insert. Otherwise your pillows are being used as a decoration, instead of adding comfort to your seat. And what's the point of that?

[photos by Ashlee Raubach]

Almost always buy big pillows! 22" to 24" are my favorite for 98% of all sofas. People often use too many small pillows, and it adds visual clutter. If you'll start with 2 large 24" pillows in each corner and step down from there, you'll find you may only need one or two more. Its not important to be symmetrical in laying out your pillows. You want it to look interesting and collected. Buying the right quality pillows, with genuine textures; hair on hide, woven leathers, furs, shell details, wovens, velvets, will give your decor a feeling of luxury and authenticity. It's one area you don't want to skimp. It's the finishing layer - make it shine.

[photos by Nicole Hill Gerulat]

[photos by Ashlee Raubach]