Make It Pop!

The Ikea Expedit Shelving Unit - A Design Classic!

2012-01-18T16:13:00.003-06:00

In honor of January and the organization mania that comes with it, I am dedicating this post to my favorite organization workhorse:

the Ikea Expedit Shelving Unit, weighing in at only $129 (as pictured)!

(No- Ikea isn't paying me, I just like it that much! I have five.)

This thing is CRAZY-versatile. It can be used decoratively, for storage (you can buy lovely add-on baskets and drawers), for a room divider, even for a doll house! And, there's a use for it in almost any room. It's finished on both sides and comes in the natural wood color above, or black or white. It comes in sections which you can arrange as above, or use individually.

Let's look at some uses, shall we?

Have a great day!

Is Tangerine Tango on YOUR Dance Card?

2012-01-09T10:43:00.003-06:00

Have you heard? Honeysuckle is so OVER. The newest Pet du Pantone is (drum roll, pleeeeze....)

What does this mean to you? It means you will see it EVERYWHERE. On shoes, couches, pillows, jewelry, dog collars, curtains, underwear, you name it. Even if you had not read this, your mind will become slowly infused with the need for a Tangerine touch in all aspects of your life.

So, let's just get started now, shall we? Following are just a few ways to infuse some Tangerine into your life.

Trina Turk for Layla Grace $130

Mac Neon Orange Lipstick and Creamstick Liner - $14 each

DesignSponge.com

Kate Spade Melinda Bag $425

Coco & Kelley

H&M $49.95

Z Gallerie Geo Bedding Queen Duvet $149.95

Betsey Johnson Hippo Face Stud Earrings $35

KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Mixer $269.99

Natalie Umbert

Art Glass Coral Bowl $58 - Etsy

Warning: unless you are financially favored, keep in mind that by this time next year, Tangerine will be so OVER.

Have a great day!

The 10 Essential Ingredients for Simple and Inexpensive Christmas Decorating

2011-12-10T13:59:00.002-06:00

So this Christmas, I've been perusing Pinterest like a crazy person, searching for easy ways to get a lovely holiday look for less. I've noticed some repeating themes and have whittled my shopping list down to 10 low cost items:

1. Fruit and Nuts - Cranberries, Green Apples, Oranges and Nuts with Shells

2. Burlap

3. Ribbon

4.White Candles

5.Cinnamon Sticks

6.Glass Bell Jars and Hurricanes

7.Peppermints and Candy Canes

8.Kraft Paper

9.Soft-White Christmas Lights

10.Natural Greens, Pinecones and Grapevine Wreaths

That's it! With these 10 items, you can set beautiful tables, put together amazing mantle displays, decorate your tree, the door, the walls and wrap all your presents -beautifully! Have a look at just how lovely it can be:

BHG.com

Etsy

www.southernliving.com

www.google.com

www.marthastewart.com

www.goodhousekeeping.com

www.33shadesofgreen.blogspot.com

www.pinterest.com

www.realsimple.com

www.vickydar.com

http://wohnidee.wunderweib.de

www.re-nest.com

www.fudgeripple.blogspot.com

So, gather your list and let your imagination take over! Let me know what else you come up with using these items!

Merry Christmas!

My Summer Vacation, Mixbook and a Photo Challenge...

2011-08-30T14:51:00.002-05:00

So, my family is blessed to be able to take advantage of my (very generous) in-law's summer house up by Sleeping Bear Dunes, Lake Michigan. It's always the highlight of our summer - staying up until 3am every night, catching crawdads, tubing, climbing the dunes, exploring little towns, and simply taking in the extreme beauty all around. This year, I was inspired to dig out my camera and keep it with me throughout the trip. I had a photographic blast!

After I got home, I went to the Mixbook site and made an incredible little book for about $19 (includes shipping)! I was SO impressed with it!

(It's 8X6 in real life)

I'm ordering my 3rd copy today because my relatives keep taking it.

Anyway, I decided to enter one of my photos in the Crazy Days of Summer Photo Challenge at Live and Love... Outloud which, by the way, ends tomorrow (in case you're interested in entering).

What about you? Did you get inspired by anything new (or old) this summer? As summer ends, and winter approaches I'm challenging myself to save time for creativity - no matter where I am or what the season. I hope you will too!

Have a great day!

Considering Glidden's New Front Door and Trim Paint...

2011-08-30T11:49:00.002-05:00

We've had some lovely weather lately here, in the Midwest. It's starting to cool just a bit and we're starting to get that gorgeous slanted fall light. Unfortunately, after the lovely fall comes the very barren winter and, suddenly the peeling paint on the house or the knocked up front door seems much more obvious. With that in mind, I am setting out to repaint our front door. Right now, my door is painted in Benjamin Moore's Dark Purple in a Soft Gloss finish.

I still like the color, but was tempted by Glidden's new line of Front Door and Trim Paints.

These look amazing. I love the idea of a no drip paint! Alas, it only comes in a limited number of colors. A call to my local Home Depot revealed that Glidden does plan on expanding to custom colors soon, though. In the meantime, I'll go back to Benjamin. I'm going to try the High Gloss this time, clean up the brass a bit and add a kickplate at the bottom. I'll give you a look when I'm done!
What are you doing to prepare for winter?
Have a great day!

Wicked Witch Bookmark - Make One Yourself!

2011-05-18T08:16:00.002-05:00

I just saw this adorable "Wicked Witch Bookmark" and had to share!

Instructions can be found here.

Have a great day!

Spring Color Palette

2011-05-17T10:16:00.002-05:00

Image via

Farrow and Ball- Fabulous!

2011-05-13T18:10:00.003-05:00

I went on a housewalk with some girlfriends last week. The walk was in this house in Lake Forest, Illinois:

It was called "Thorndale Manor" (please say "dah...ling" at the end). Anyway, it had some lovely rooms. Here's the main entryway:

And the main staircase:

The birch trees are hand-painted to reflect the view out the window.

This beautiful space was done by Julia Edelman at Buckingham Interiors and Design in Chicago.

That's all you can see right now, since photos weren't actually allowed and I had to borrow the above from the Buckingham website. One thing I can show and tell you about though, were the amazing paint colors used throughout the home. They were all Farrow and Ball. I have to say, although Farrow and Ball paint is crazy-expensive at $70 a gallon, I believe, in some cases, it may be worth it.

The colors are gorgeous and, although you can try to replicate that with another brand, there's something about the formula that makes the walls look like clay. It truly looks like the walls are made of the color.

Let's explore some! Here's an example of F&B Mouse's Back:

via Washington Post

And, here's a lovely room done in F&B Downspout:

via Out of Paper

This is F&B Borrowed Light:

Flickr

And, my current favorite, F&B Churlish Green:

via Design Lines Ltd.

Feeling spicy? How about F&B Blazer?

Todd Romano

And, they have some excellent "stone-toned" colors, like F&B Skimming Stone:

via Decor Pad

and, F&B London Clay:

via Modern Design Trends

So pretty! I want to try Churlish Green in my sunroom. What about you? Do you have any experience with Farrow and Ball paint? Do you think it's worth it?

Have a great day!

Out of the Box: "Nice Underwear" Mat

2011-05-13T15:39:00.002-05:00

$22 Uncommon Goods

Hee, hee.

Blue Sky Umbrella - Always Walk on the Sunny Side of the Street

2011-03-27T23:10:00.001-05:00

Blue Sky Umbrella Uncommon Goods $48

My husband bought me an umbrella like this back before we were married. I thought it was such a romantic gift. Somehow, in the 15 years since we've been married, it disappeared. Now that I've found it again, I think I'll leave pictures around and hum "I've got sunshine, on a cloudy day..." and see if he gets the hint.

Macaron Mania

2011-03-23T21:09:00.000-05:00

Is it true?

Has the macaron replaced the cupcake? Here, in the midwest, we're not seeing all that many macarons yet. But, New York celebrated the magical macaron with the second annual Macaron Day (read: free macarons!) last Sunday, March 20th. The day coincides with the annual Jour du Macaron in Paris, where the macaron craze really started.

Remember all the fabulous pastries in Marie Antionette?

They were supplied by Parisian pâtissier Ladurée.

Apparently, "the best macarons in the world" come from there.

Wouldn't you just love to find out for yourself? Alas, you'll have to take a trip to Paris - if they lose their freshness, they lose the love.

While you're saving up, you can try this recipe from Martha Stewart.

What do you think? Will the cute little cupcake really be replaced by the more sophisticated macaron?

Blue Hues Color Palette

2011-03-22T20:55:00.002-05:00

Photo via Scott and Tem Photography

Spring Dreaming - Anthropologie Garden Chairs

2011-03-22T08:29:00.000-05:00

Loving the curves on these sweet garden chairs from Anthropologie $248 each

Spring Vintage Color Palette

2011-03-21T12:18:00.000-05:00

Image via We Heart It

Dawn Tan Recipe Prints!

2011-03-21T08:23:00.000-05:00

I wish I could take one of Dawn Tan's watercolor classes! Alas, she lives in Australia. The good news is, her prints are available at her shop, Hand Made Love on Etsy. Have a favorite recipe you'd like her to make a print of? She'll do that too! So cute in a kitchen and awesome for a special gift!

Have a great day!

Eggplant Stacks with Goat Cheese

2011-03-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

I love the look and taste of eggplant, but I'm never quite sure what to do with it. Then I saw this recipe over at Chicho's Kitchen and had to try it. A stovetop grill works fine.

via Chicho's Kitchen

Ingredients (serves 4):
2 eggplants
goat cheese
olive oil
salt and pepper

Cut the eggplants in 12 slices. Heat a grill pan and grill them on both sides.

Place them in a plate and drizzle 2 tbsp of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and let them marinate for about 15 mn. Cut the cheese in 8 slices.

Form the millefeuilles. Place one eggplant slice in a plate, place on top a goat cheese slice, then another eggplant slice. Continue with the rest in order to form 4 millefeuille. Bake in oven around 10 mn at 350ºF (180ºC).

Have a great day!

Want.

2011-03-20T10:38:00.000-05:00

Carrie Bicycle Basket $79 Emmo Home

A Personal Story About My Neck

2011-03-18T11:40:00.001-05:00

Today I'm going to tell you a personal story. It's about my neck. And, it might be about your neck.

via

About nine years ago, I had a lot of migraines. To make the migraines go away, I went to the chiropractor and had my neck adjusted.

I felt better.

But one day, I was playing catch with my 5 year old in the back yard and went numb on my right side. I couldn't see very well - things looked like the inside of a kaleidoscope. It didn't hurt very much. Actually, I felt kind of drunk.

I called an ambulance. My 5 year old put away the dog and let the paramedics in.

To make a long story short, I had had a stroke. The vertebral arteries on each side of my neck were dissected. See, we have major arteries in our necks:

They weren't made to be stretched and turned. My neurosurgeon (one of the best in the country) told me he sees it all the time. Most often in young moms.
I don't have any residual effects. I was very lucky.
I bring this up now because yesterday, I saw my regular doctor who told me she happens to have three other patients who stroked due to chiropractic neck adjustments. I just felt I had to tell you.
Now, when I have a migraine, I do this:

via

And maybe take an Advil or have a glass of wine. I let my husband make dinner. And I go to bed.

There's an article on this issue here.

Sorry - I know this is off-topic. But, I just felt I should tell you.

Vacation Memory Jars

2011-03-17T20:06:00.000-05:00

Spring Break is coming up and we are looking SO forward to it. This year, I want to make sure and take LOTS of pictures. The kids are getting older and we don't have that many of these left. Another way to preserve memories are memory jars. Just bring some baggies, collect some sand and shells and voila:

via

There are so many possible variations on this! Add your favorite picture from the trip. Add little trinkets, a postcard, ticket stubs. a twig or a rock from a hike:

via Young House Love

Label them with tags or press-on letters:

via Sally Lee by the Sea

These would look so nice on a bookshelf or next to a bed. And, collected over the years, they'd look so lovely as a group. A perfect way to create a beautiful and instant memory.

Have a great day!

Cherry Blossom-Insipired Roundup

2011-03-11T15:26:00.002-06:00

We visited Washington D.C. a few weeks ago and seeing the pictures of the Cherry Blossom Festival there, really made me want to go back and see it.

Now Public

Until then, I'll settle for some of these lovely Cherry Blossom -inspired items...

Clockwise from top left:

Cherry Blossom Party Votives $30 for 6 - Gamiworks

Cherry Blossom Tree Wall Decal $85 - Surface Inspired

Cherry Blossom Shea Butter and Glycerin Soaps $5.50 each - The Pig and The Peacock

Japanese Kimono Frame Clutch $28 - Field of Roses

Soleil 8X10 Print $30 - Urban Pink Photography

Soft Pink Cherry Blossom Earrings $29 Lisa D Jewelry

Cherry Blossoms IPhone Sleeve $15.99 By ESA

Jade Green Cherry Blossom Paperweight $16 - Tanner Glass

I LOVE spring,!

Etsy Treasure Hunt - Charityelise Porcelain Pieces

2011-03-10T14:20:00.001-06:00

Full of detail, color and texture, this Atlanta mother of two gives her porcelain works a whimsical feel that's fresh as Spring. Have a look:

Dots in Squares Turquoise Porcelain Earrings $23

Leafy Tapas Plates $15 each

Dotted Lime Tidbit Plate $30

Mix Tape Necklace $25

Filigree Heart Necklace $35

Magnetic Pottery Bud Vase $16

Which do you like best?

Spring Dreaming - The Dedon Nestrest Hanging Lounger

2011-03-09T12:18:00.000-06:00

As I day-dream of the coming spring and summer days, this fabulous hanging lounger by Dedon keeps appearing. I guess I'm actually day-dreaming about day-dreaming in this thing.

It's made of a fiber that lets you look out but no one on the outside can see in. I know it's probably super-expensive, but I wonder if I could fit a microwave, a bed and a few bookshelves in there and then put my house up for sale? A girl can dream, can't she?

Wallpaper Baby-Steps Part 2

2011-03-09T11:23:00.000-06:00

Continuing our Wallpaper Baby-Steps Series (see here for part one), here are some bathroom inspiration photos for you. Enjoy!

Massucco Warner Miller

Caldwell Flake

Decor Pad

Have a great day!

Wallpaper Baby-Steps Part 1

2011-03-08T12:33:00.004-06:00

Have you noticed wallpaper is BACK? I'm not seeing it so much in larger rooms, but I'm definitely seeing it in the smaller spaces and in lots of accent areas. Wallpaper can really add some fun and personality to a room. If you're still a little nervous about even trying it in small rooms, here are some baby steps you can take to introduce wallpaper to your space:

1) Frame It Out.

The Style Files

If you back it with a board, this option is completely commitment-free. Change or move it whenever you want.

2) Accent the Fireplace.

The Lennoxx

3)Wallpaper Your Door Panels.

Martha Stewart

4) Wallpaper Your Stair Risers.

Door Sixteen

5) Make a Beautious Headboard.

DIYideas.com

6) Make Some Easy and Movable Banners.

Better Homes and Gardens

7) Cover Your Switch plates.

Martha Stewart

8) Dress Up Your Lampshades.

Etsy

9) Pop Out Your Shelving.

decor8

10) Top a table.

Alkemie

Tomorrow, we'll look at wallpaper in bathrooms. Stay tuned!

Have a great day!

A Nursery A Baby Can Grow Into! Moodboard Monday!

2011-03-07T09:47:00.001-06:00

Hello. This week, I decided to participate in the Moodboard Monday party over at Pewter and Sage. I LOVE putting mood boards together. The idea for this board (via Pewter and Sage) was to take one of two possible "inspiration cribs" and put together a room based on it. The cribs are available at Bonavita and are really clever because they convert from crib to toddler bed to full bed as the child grows! A really good investment! Out of the two cribs, I chose this one:

My imaginary clients are a family expecting their first child. It will be a girl (they're naming her Penelope) and they are very excited. They love to read and want to pass that love on to their daughter. They want a feminine room, but not a lot of the expected pink. They want the room to be something she can easily grow into (just like her crib). The rest of their house is rather eclectic - some modern, some exotic and some traditional pieces spread throughout. Here's what I came up with:

I started with the printed fabric.

It's from Bon Bon Atelier and I love the fact that it's traditional, yet modern. I'd like to cover an 8X8 board with it and attach it to the wall behind the crib. It can be used as a sort of headboard later and if the family wants a change down the road they can easily remove it or recover it.

Next came the floors.

I wanted to put some contrast and color in an unexpected place, so these are wood floors stained navy. I liked that it would look kind of like a blue lake that the crib could "float" on.
The beautiful blue armoire is from 1st Dibs.

I chose it both because of the blue it pulled from the fabric and because I love the Moroccan style - it reminds me of The Arabian Nights. This piece will work in the room throughout Penelope's childhood and will work in pretty much any room in the house later on.
The chest is from West Elm.

I liked it for it's clean lines (for tension) and dark color (for contrast). It will be used as a changing table and then as a regular chest.
The Stingray Rocker is by Thomas Pedersen via Danish Design Store.

Love the curves that mimic the crib and the flowers in the fabric. This is a rocker no teenage girl would consider "babyish".
The vintage book stand is via Etsy.

Books are always more enticing when you can see their covers.
The side table is the Edgartown Sidetable from Oomph.

In real life I would've chosen this with the additional bottom shelf, but I couldn't find the right color for the moodboard. I like it's transitional feel.
The rug is the Tattersall Cotton Rug from Dash and Albert.

The Pouf is via Serena and Lily.

It can be used as an ottoman, will be fun for toddler Penelope to climb on and she'll love it as a teen.
The navy Murano Glass Chandelier is from Shades of Light.

I like how it balances out the floor and how it will blend into the ceiling at night when it is dimmed. Plus, it's not to frou frou.
The mirror is from Layla Grace.

The Owl, Getting Sleepy sign and Pink Silk Pillow are all from Etsy.

The white pillow with the blue pattern is from Serena and Lily.

And, finally the cream paint is for the walls and is Monterrey White by Benjamin Moore.

And the light blue/gray paint is for the ceiling (to simulate a reflection of the floor) and is Toadstone by Valspar.

What do you think? Be sure to check out the other boards at Pewter and Sage!

Have a great day!

Fab Find - Cuisipro Scoop and Stack Ice Cream Scooper

2011-03-04T09:50:00.001-06:00

Cuisipro Scoop and Stack Organize.com

$14.99

Saw this and had to share - a simple, easy twist and the ice cream is out and then stacks flat for less mess! And, such a great price! Simply genius.

7 DIY Ideas You Can Really Do!

2011-03-03T12:23:00.001-06:00

1. Creative Use for Old Soda Bottles PoBox 607

2. Tin Cans+Cookiesheet+Magnets= Wall Organizer HGTV

3.Faux Wall Clock Ada Interiors

4. Rain Gutter Bookshelf Tutorial Raisingolives.com

5. Scrub Brush Pencil Holder Fitzsu.com

6. Photo Heart Photo.renren.com

7.Family Photo - unknown source

Have a great day!

Sick Today. Blah.

2011-03-02T13:40:00.000-06:00

via The Bottom of the Ironing Basket

Spring Dreaming - My Favorite Spring Gardening Catalogs

2011-03-01T11:22:00.001-06:00

Ah- finally! I heard a Chickadee singing in the sun this morning. So cute! They're around all winter here, but they only seem to sing on sunnier days.

Anyway, his singing started me thinking about spring and flowers and gardens and made me realize I can now officially start looking though my favorite catalogs! I thought I'd share my two "go-to's" for spring dreaming:

For Plants and Flowers:

I have had great luck with White Flower Farm plants. They have always been healthy and always look great - especially by year two. Their online site is lovely and you should peruse catagories like "Top Rated Plants" and watch some of the very helpful videos. Still, order the "real" catalog. There's just something about sitting on the back steps on an unusually warm morning, paging through the catalog that's divine. (Plus you can dog-ear and circle). Make sure you check out their Garden Inspirations section for some great ideas on what plants look good together, their amazing Dahlia Collection and their Staff-Pick Tomatoes.

Dahlia - Karma Sangria July-October

White Flower Farms Hummingbird Annual Collection

Part Shade June-September

Tomato Sungold (Staff Pick)

For Seeds:

The Cook's Garden

Order the catalog and then have fun on the incredibly, easy-to-use website. Put your zip code in on the upper left and it will pop up your zone along with suggestions of what you should be doing now. Also helpful is that each product description includes date to maturity, sowing method (direct or indoor), spread, height and light information. Especially, check out the Lettuce Mixes, Mesclun Mixes, Selvatica Tangy Arugula, and their Recipes.

Spring Mix Lettuce

Carrot Kaleidoscope Mix

Sweet Pepper and Carrot Soup Recipe

What are your favorite gardening catalogs? I'd love to hear!

Have a great day!

Right-Brain Rescues

2011-02-28T16:57:00.002-06:00

Hello and happy Monday! Ugh - actually, I've had a crummy Monday which is why I'm posting ~~kind of~~ late today. A traffic ticket, a major computer error (that messed up my daughter's research paper) and a financial mistake that came with a nice, hefty penalty. Just a bad day. There are worse things.

Much of my chaos is probably self-imposed by my over-developed right brain. Also known as ADD. So, let's look at some organizational items that might (maybe) help the situation. First of all, to avoid more traffic tickets:

On-Time Clock Diamatini & Domeniconi

And, maybe this idea would help me keep important paperwork in front of my face:

Maybe I should make a GIANT weekly calendar out of an old door:

via Apartment Therapy

And this idea could help me grab my sunglasses faster:

via Flickr

Finally, I got one of these for Christmas and it has helped A LOT (yes- I was worse before):

Pursfection Purse Organizer QVC $20

What about you? I have a feeling there are lots of other right-brainers out there. How do you cope? Is there anything that has really helped?

Have a great ~~day~~ evening!

And the Winner IS....

2011-02-28T08:22:00.000-06:00

The winner of the Alexa Hampton The Language of Interiors giveaway is....

Linda of Seaside Style!!! Congratulations Linda! And, if you haven't checked out Linda's blog, have a look! It's like... well, like a breath of fresh, seaside air!

True Random Number Generator
Min:
Max:
Result: 6
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

(For some weird reason the min and max numbers disappeared when I pasted - they were 1 and 16.)

Linda, just e-mail me your address and I'll send it right off! Thanks so much to all who participated!

Alexa Hampton Book Giveaway! Last Day to Enter!

2011-02-27T12:28:00.000-06:00

Today is the last day to enter the giveaway to win Alexa Hampton's The Language of Interior Design! Entering is easy. All you need to do is:

1) Sign up as a "follower" by clicking on the "Follow" button at right. If you have already signed up as a follower, no worries, you're in!
2) Look through past posts, chose your favorite and leave a comment.

I'll be using Random.org to find the winner tonight (Sunday) at 10pm central. I'll post the winner tomorrow (Monday) morning at 10am. Good luck!!!

DesignPop Decorating Services!

2011-02-26T16:25:00.006-06:00

Did you know I am available to help you create your dream space?

I would love to talk to you! Here's some information about my services:

DESIGNPOP

INTERIORS

email: ssstukel@hotmail.com

Why Hire Me?
I can help keep you from making costly mistakes by:

-Giving you a "grand plan" to work from, so you don't buy something that ends up not working with your direction.

-Giving you a plan that works within your budget.

-Giving you a To-Do List that you can follow as time and budget allow.

-Helping you to invest the larger part of your budget in the important pieces that will be used the most and spend less in the trendier, less used items.

-Using my resources to give you the best choices and prices available.

-Giving you a Layout that works so you can be sure your furniture will fit.

I can help you create the space of your dreams by:

-Making sure the room functions well for your particular lifestyle.

-Using my knowledge of space, balance, color and texture to make your room as beautiful as possible.

-Giving you ideas you would not have thought of on your own.

-Helping you to find your style and preferences.

We have two different plans available:

BASIC DESIGN PLAN $325

E-mail me with photos of your space, measurements and what you would like to have done and what your budget for the room is. I will then e-mail you a questionnaire to fill out so that I can learn your preferences and style. You will then receive the following within two weeks:

1) A Design Board especially created for your space which will include suggested fabrics, rugs, lighting, furniture, paint colors, window treatments, art and accessories. For more Design Board examples, see here.

2) A To Do List will accompany the Design Board. This list will include specific stores either in your area or on the Internet where you can buy each of the things on the board. I will research the best prices to make sure you get the best possible deal on each item. For example:

DESIGNPOP

INTERIORS

To Do and Shopping List for Melissa and Trey Jeffreys

(Items are listed in order of suggested purchase)

1) "Bubbles" Abstract Original Oil Painting, Large Nature and Art $400

I’m suggesting you order this first, since it is the piece the rest of the room is built around. Install this after painting (Step 4). Install the rest of this list in order of purchase.

2) Crystorama Lighting Luxo 3-Light Semi-Flush Ceiling Lamp LightingUniverse.com $245

3) Benjamin Moore Aura Paint ePaintstore.com

4 Gallons Monroe Bisque in Matte (walls) $224

2 Gallons mixed equal parts Monroe Bisque and Monterrey White both in Matte (ceiling) $102

1 Gallon Monterery White in Satin (trim) $56

1 Gallon Quincy Tan in Satin (fireplace) $56

4) 88" Dean Sofa in Liche Room and Board $1699

5) 2 Bennu Armchairs Pier One Imports $260

6) 2 Deluxe Calliope Ivory Chair Cushions Pier One Imports $80

7) Tyler Leather Off-White Bench Overstock.com $199

8) Seafoam Green Round Garden Stool Overstock.com $117

9) 4 96" Ready Made White Cloud Linen Curtain Panels Halfpriceddrapes.com $316

10) 2 54"-144" Extendable Antique Bronze Bell Curtain Rod Sets Halfpriceddrapes.com $98

11) 4X 6 Safavieh Durrie Light Blue/Ivory Rug CSN Stores $153

12) Grey Weathered Farmhouse Console Cost Plus World Market $249.99

12) 2 Nate Burkus Handcrafted Orbit Table Lamps HSN.com $230

13) 14" Brass Round Bamboo Serving Tray South Rose Window $29

14) 5' Areca Palm Tree Realpalmtrees.com $159.95
15) San Miguel Apothecary Jars Sears.com $29.99
16)Succulent Terrarium Globe Succulents Galore $28
17) Bamboo and Cotton Throw Burke Decor $90
18) Vintage Brass Magazine Rack Aunt Sister's Picks $12
19) Robert Allen Print Throw Pillow Cover Elegant Touch $35
20) Chocolate Brown Faux Suede Throw Pillow Blue Warehouse 75 $14.99
21) Blue Urchin Bowl Element Clay Studio $72

3) I will also include a 3-D Layout of your space so you can be sure each of the items will fit perfectly.

These tools will give you an incredibly useful visual reference which you can then finish out yourself according you your time and budget or you can continue to work with me at
Classic Plan rates:

CLASSIC DESIGN PLAN $50 hourly

If you would like further help or just some quick advice, my rates are:

$50 per hour for shopping, advice, resourcing or overseeing of projects.

$250 per day for 5-7 hours of shopping together.

Interested? E-mail me at:
ssstukel@hotmail

Roasted Cauliflower with Gremolata Bread Crumbs

2011-02-25T14:34:00.003-06:00

Have you been over to Food 52? Every week they have a contest for cooks, such as "Your Best Pudding" or "Your Best Chilled Soup". The editors (Amanda Hessler and Merrill Stubbs of the New York Times) test them , choose their 2 favorites and then the community chimes in by voting. The resulting winning recipe is then added to the Food 52 Cookbook. Here's the winner for the "Your Best Cauliflower" contest:

Serves 6

2 large heads cauliflower

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, divided

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Trim tough stem and core from cauliflower and discard. Using a paring knife, cut cauliflower into smaller spears. Place in a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper; toss to combine.

Spread cauliflower out on 2 large, rimmed baking sheets. Roast until edges start to brown, about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add panko and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and stir to coat in oil. Cook, stirring constantly, until bread crumbs are golden. Add lemon zest and garlic and toss until mixture is very fragrant and bread crumbs are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Place in a medium bowl and add parsley, stirring to combine. Set aside.

Remove cauliflower from oven and place on serving platter. Top with bread crumbs and serve immediately.

They also have an area where they answer reader cooking questions in "real time" called FoodPickle, a Blog, and an amazing Shop where you can find wonderful hand-picked items like this:

Dorset Cheese from Vermont

$15.48 for 1/2 pound

and this:

Almond Extract

$7.95

Have fun checking it out!

A Design Story Sunday Blog Parade

(My) Designer Hall of Fame - Mary McDonald

2011-02-25T12:17:00.002-06:00

Mary McDonald

Los Angeles-based designer Mary McDonald's website describes her style as "fearless and joyful" and, I think you'll agree when you look through her interiors. She doesn't shy away from color, pattern or whimsy and her rooms stand out because of it. You will often see recurring touches of Chinoiserie, shots of black and bold graphics. But, she does it in such and original way. Who else could do bright yellow and black and make it look so sophisticated?

Have a great day!

(My) Designer Hall of Fame - Jeffers Design Group

2011-02-24T09:48:00.002-06:00

Note: This is the fourth post in a week-long series of (My) Designer Hall of Fame. This week started with the chance to win a copy of Alexa Hampton's The Language of Interiors. The contest ends on Sunday, February 27th. Details are here. Good Luck!

Kelly Hohla and Jay Jeffers

Named one of House Beautiful's Top 100 Interior Designers twice, Jeffers Design Group brings a wonderful mix of style and fun into their spaces. Jeffers is one of those designers whose rooms you can stare at for the longest time - asking yourself questions like "Where did he find that?" and "Is that headboard glass?" His brilliant rooms are great examples of what can happen when a designer has totally gained a client's trust (oh, and is as good as Jay Jeffers).

Thanks for looking! Don't forget to enter the contest!

Have a great day!

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-24T09:01:00.001-06:00

via

(My) Designer Hall of Fame - Massucco Warner Miller

2011-02-23T12:04:00.004-06:00

Melissa Warner, Julie Massucco Kleiner and Carrie Miller

The lovely ladies at Massucco Warner Miller got together to decorate a room for the 2008 San Francisco Decorator Showcase and have been making a design splash together ever since. Their rooms are easy, fresh and clean with pops of color and graphics throughout. They know how to do wallpaper right and often throw a vintage element into a modern mix.

What do you see that catches your eye?

Have a great day!

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-23T11:27:00.001-06:00

Changing Nose Cups Cox & Cox

(My) Designer Hall of Fame - Jan Showers

2011-02-22T10:02:00.002-06:00

Note: This is the second in a week-long series of (My) Designer Hall of Fame. This week started with the chance to win a copy of Alexa Hampton's The Language of Interiors. The contest ends on Sunday, February 27th. Please enter! Details are here. Good Luck!

She's all 1940's French, and zebras, and gold, and lucite and mirrors - usually with a dash of something unexpected thrown in. A modern wallpaper, a tall white giraffe, a midcentry chest or a pop of turquoise, chartuese or hot pink. She has a signture style yet never stales. She's Jan Showers. And, she's simply true glamor

done right

Jan Showers

Have a great day!

(My) Designer Hall Of Fame - Alexa Hampton

2011-02-21T09:59:00.005-06:00

In case you missed it, I am giving away a copy of the amazing Alexa Hampton's book The Language of Interiors to one lucky reader. Basically, all you need to do to get a chance to win is add yourself as a follower and leave a comment on your favorite past post! Details here.

Alexa's father, Mark Hampton, was an amazing designer himself - working for the likes of clients such as George and Barbara Bush and Estee Lauder. When he died, in 1998, Alexa took over Mark Hampton LLC and has carried on her father's signature style of the hard-to-achieve, sophisticated yet inviting space. In addition to her interiors. her Midas touch can be found at:

Hickory Chair

The Regan Chair

Visual Comfort Lights

Kate Table Lamp in Polished Nickel

and Stark Carpet

Hand knotted Wool and Silk Rug

(all this and three children too!). Now, I'll stop "talking" and just let you enjoy some of her interiors:

Architectural Digest

via

Cote De Texas

Connecticut Cottage and Gardens

Curbed.com

So, want to see more? Sign up as a follower, leave a comment on a past post and get a chance to win the book!

Have a great day!

FREE! Alexa Hampton Book Giveaway!!!

2011-02-20T11:23:00.003-06:00

So, I am getting lots of visitors, but not as many followers as I would love to have. So, in the interest of changing that, I have ~~resorted to bribery~~ decided to give away a brand new copy of Alexa Hampton's fabulous book The Language of Interior Design.

If you haven't already heard about it, here's a review from one of many happy readers:

"I didn't know that much about Alexa Hampton before I got the book, and assumed (I guess because of her famous father) that her designs and sensibilities would be way out of reach. But her book is so beautiful, and the text is so informative, I have been completely delighted! I particularly love the tone of the book. She shares a lot of her own story with the reader, which makes this book as much fun to READ as it is to look at. The book is filled with plenty of aspirational homes and photos, but they're presented in a way that helps you see how you can apply it to your own life. I was also pleased to find many interiors that I would love to copy completely! I would recommend this book to any home design lover out there, and was very happy to get it as a gift."via Amazon

Hampton's beautiful book is listed at a $50 retail value.

Here's all you have to do to get a chance to win:

1) Sign up as a "follower" by clicking on the "Follow" button at right. If you have already signed up as a follower, no worries, you're in!
2) Look through past posts, chose your favorite and leave a comment.

That's it! Each follower/commenter has one chance to win and there will be one winner chosen at 10pm on Sunday, February 27th. I will be using Random.org to find the winner and the winner will be announced on this blog on Monday, February 28th at 10am. You will need to visit the blog to claim your prize (just write a comment). If there is no claim within three days, the prize will then be offered to the second person chosen, etc.

As of this writing, your chances are pretty darn good, so go for it!

Good luck!

I will be posting more about the uber-talented Alexa Hampton on Monday's blog, which will be the beginning of a week of (My) Designer Hall of Fame. I'll feature a new designer and their work each day.

See you then!

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-19T14:49:00.000-06:00

Green Tea Foam Drawing via

Happy Saturday!

Etsy Treasure Hunt - Cartoon Monster

2011-02-18T11:38:00.003-06:00

I guess I'll never get too old for Peter Pan and Where the Wild Things Are. That's why i find these automated sculptures simply magical. Watch what happens when you turn the crank:

They're handmade by Cartoon Monster and are priced anywhere from $24 to close to $200. Ninety percent of the materials he uses are from the thrift store where he works. Although they're too delicate for children, I think they're a wonderful and very original gift for anyone who loves the water, sailing or simply appreciates great craftsmanship with a little enchantment thrown in.

My House - Come on In!

2011-02-17T12:12:00.003-06:00

Today, I realized you don't know much about my house, so I thought I'd start a sporadic little series taking you through it. First of all, you should know, we live in a big old farm house that was built in 1861. It's an Italianate Victorian and when we first bought it, it was painted blue with pink shutters and all the gingerbread was painted contrasting colors. We (well, not us - the painters) painted it this soft yellow color; the shutters are a khaki green color and the doors are, yes, purple. I love my purple doors.
We live in a lovely little town with an adorable square that was actually featured in the movie "Groundhog Day".
Today, I'll show you the foyer and tell you what I like and don't like about it:

What I like:

I like the paint. When we moved in it was flowered wallpaper everywhere.

I love that Chinese storage piece. It hides a multitude of messes - school books, dog bones, etc.

I love the lamp - mostly because it was my grandma's. Here it is up close:

At one point it had a matching shade, but it was broken at one point and I actually cried (I know- it's just a thing). I still love it.

I love the bird picture. I've always loved birds (even before the days of "put a bird on it"). This picture is interesting because the feathers are actually real and the rest is watercolor.

I got it in a thrift store and had it reframed in faux bamboo.

Here's another view of the foyer:

I like the chandelier more than I used to. It had old-fashioned fussy glass globes when we moved in. I took them off and we lived with the bare candles for awhile, but it was too bright and shiny. Just recently, I put the shades on and it has made a huge difference. They diffuse the light and give it an oriental feel. I still wish the brass wasn't quite so shiny though.

I love this painting:

It's on that wall facing the stairs at the bottom. My grandma painted it. When she was 69, my grandfather died. She had never finished college, so she went back and majored in art and French. She was a foreign exchange student at the age of 71! Then she studied art in Paris for a number of years and lived to 90. She was amazing.

What I don't like:

I don't really love the floor color. It's too neutral for me. I'd love them to be rich and dark. Someday..

I don't like that the doorknob to the library (at the end of this pic) is, like 2 and a half feet off the ground. Were people that short way back when? The good thing about an old house is you get to call stuff like that "charming" and "character" and not worry about it too much.

So that's my foyer. I'll post about another room next week. Thanks for visiting!
Have a great day!

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-17T10:13:00.001-06:00

Double-sided Glo-Canvas Hanging Chandelier Duffy London

Goat Cheese with Olives, Lemon & Thyme

2011-02-16T20:00:00.018-06:00

One of my favorite reicpe sites is Epicurious.com. They have recipes called "Quick and Easy", which I always go to when I need something that looks and tastes impressive, but was really easy. This recipe is made almost like an ice cream sundae - but with goat cheese instead. The olives, lemon and thyme are heated and then poured over. A real Mediterranean delight!

via Epicurious.com

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup assorted olives

3 fresh thyme sprigs

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1 (4- to 5-ounce) fresh goat-cheese medallion or 2 (2-ounces) goat-cheese buttons (room temperature)

PREPARATION

Heat olives, thyme, oil, zest, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small skillet or saucepan over low heat until fragrant (do not simmer). Cool to room temperature.

Serve olive mixture over goat cheese.

(We use rosemary crisps or warm french bread from the grocery store to serve along side).

Serves: 4

Check out the recipe linky party at All Things Thrifty for more great recipes!

Enjoy!

For the Love of Books - Part 2 (Storage)

2011-02-16T15:39:00.005-06:00

So, I was working on my blog for today, and I saw this:

via

and then I saw this:

via

and I thought, "Oh, those would look really sweet together." But then I looked a little closer... I swear that kid has a NINTENDO! Surrounded by all those books! What is this world coming to? Oh well, we shall ignore the madness and march on...

Anyway, today, we're talking about book storage ideas.

Here's a simply genius idea to keep your place in your "bedtime book":

Wall Bookmarker $29 via Sleek Identity

And, if you're having trouble finding storage for the loads of books scattered throughout the house, have you considered looking under the stairs?

via Deezeen

via

Or under the window seat?

via

What about a headboard swap?

thehousehome

Or, perhaps a bookcase/chair combo:

via Innumerable Goods

This one actually rolls around and has a pop up light and secret storage area (for those of us who admit we need reading glasses):

Bookinist Treehugger.com

I bet you haven't tried the fireplace.

via (Kate Spade store)

Or the closet:

via

While you're at it, you could take off the jackets and color arrange them to make them even prettier:

via

And, if you have space for shelves, but don't want to spend the money,

what about this simple idea?

via Hindsvik

So, store your books, love your books and READ your books (okay- I'm still upset about the kid). I wish I could tell him that Nintendo's come and go, but books stay with you forever.

Have a great day!

For the Love of Books - Part 1

2011-02-15T11:55:00.001-06:00

Does the sight of this make your heart beat faster?

via

If you answer is yes, then I know you (like me) are book-berserk too.
Here are some ways to express your book-amore:

Paint the stairs:

via

Make storage space look like bookshelves:


Roadside Photographs - $40 each Fake out your friends with this leather book computer cover:


Twelve South $79.99-$99.99 Make a "book light":


HGTV DIY instructions here Draw a library:

Anthropologie

And, if you're really in book-love:

via Recyclart

Tomorrow, I'll be showing you some creative book storage solutions. Until then...

Have a great day!

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-15T09:17:00.003-06:00

Help! Bookmark $26 Design Boom

Fab Find

2011-02-14T12:26:00.003-06:00

Inside Our Hearts Tea Cups 6 for $50 Yedi Housewares

10 Romantic Places and Spaces

2011-02-14T09:22:00.003-06:00

via

Neotradionalist.com

via

Lucy Snowe Photography

via

La La Lovely Things

via

via Teenangster

The Pie and Apron Life

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T07:57:00.001-06:00

Huksy saying "I Love You"

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-12T09:17:00.004-06:00

Love Theater Mosiac made from Painted River Rocks $56

Mama Tita

$5000 Budget Living Room from Scratch Day 5 - the Final Reveal!

2011-02-11T17:23:00.007-06:00

Yea! Here we are on our final day of this series! We've met the client and gotten our inspiration, chosen seating and a rug, picked out tables, and found curtains, lighting and accessories.

Today, we've found our paint colors and put together a Design Board and a shopping list!

For the walls, I've chosen:

Benjamin Moore Monroe Bisque

For the fireplace, I suggest going a few shades darker:

Benjamin Moore Quincy Tan

for the trim:

Benjamin Moore Monterrey White

and for the ceiling, I suggest mixing the Monroe Bisque with the Monterrey White - half and half.

So, we've gone from this:

to this:

And here is a look at the Design Board:

Now let's look at the shopping list and see how we did. Items are in order of suggested installation:

1) "Bubbles" Abstract Original Oil Painting, Large Nature and Art $400

2) Crystorama Lighting Luxo 3-Light Semi-Flush Ceiling Lamp LightingUniverse.com $245

3) Benjamin Moore Aura Paint ePaintstore.com

4 Gallons Monroe Bisque in Matte (walls) $224

2 Gallons mixed equal parts Monroe Bisque and Monterrey White both in Matte (ceiling) $102

1 Gallon Monterery White in Satin (trim) $56

1 Gallon Quincy Tan in Satin (fireplace) $56

4) 88" Dean Sofa in Liche Room and Board $1699

5) 2 Bennu Armchairs Pier One Imports $260

6) 2 Deluxe Calliope Ivory Chair Cushions Pier One Imports $80

7) Tyler Leather Off-White Bench Overstock.com $199

8) Seafoam Green Round Garden Stool Overstock.com $117

9) 4 96" Ready Made White Cloud Linen Curtain Panels Halfpriceddrapes.com $316

10) 2 54"-144" Extendable Antique Bronze Bell Curtain Rod Sets Halfpriceddrapes.com $98

11) 4X 6 Safavieh Durrie Light Blue/Ivory Rug CSN Stores $153

12) Grey Weathered Farmhouse Console Cost Plus World Market $249.99

12) 2 Nate Burkus Handcrafted Orbit Table Lamps HSN.com $230

13) 14" Brass Round Bamboo Serving Tray South Rose Window $29

And the grand total is (drum roll, please).... $4955.92!

We made it! And I'm pooped!

Have a great day!

Creative Jump-Start: Heart Cake Tutorial

2011-02-11T08:14:00.000-06:00

I Am Baker

For directions to make this lovely cake, click on the link above.

For other great Valentine's Day ideas, click here.

The $5000 Budget Living Room From Scratch - Day 4

2011-02-10T16:59:00.001-06:00

It's day four of our series on putting together a living room from scratch on a $5000 budget. We've met our client and gotten our inspiration, chosen seating and a rug, and picked out some pretty tables. Now it's time to address lighting, curtains and accessories. Let's start with curtains.

Given that our client is looking for a beachy feel, I'm thinking canvas or linen. Our client definitely has a bit of an elegant edge to her, so let's look for linen:

I found a great resource for inexpensive quality curtains at Halfpriceddrapes.com! Their ready-made 100% linen, cotton-lined, ready to hang 96 inch curtains are only $79 per panel! We'll take four, plus two rods for hanging at $49 each.

Okay, now let's move on to lighting. I'd like to find a pair of lamps with a little bit of sparkle to go on the console behind the couch. Not too fancy, but something that maybe reminds me of the sun on metal. How about these?

Nate Berkus Handcrafted Orbit Table Lamps - $129 each at HSN.com

I love how they repeat the circular element that's in our inspiration piece:

and they give that "sun on metal" element to the room. Perfect!

We need more lighting in this room, so let's look for something that will give a glow to the entire room. Maybe something for the ceiling. Maybe something with just a hint of beach glass. Maybe something like this:

Crystorama Lighting Luxo 3 Light Semi-Flush Ceiling Light

$178.20 at Lighting Universe

Great! Done with lighting, let's move on to accessories. First, let's find some pillows to dress up our sofa. What about these?

Both are from Etsy. The pillow on the left is $35 and can be found at Elegantouch and the pillow on the right is $14.99 from Blue Warehouse.

What about something for that bench? We need something to put our drinks on!

14" Brass Bamboo Serving Tray $29 South Rose Widow

Oh, and how about something next to the sofa to hold all those design magazines:

Vintage Brass Magazine Rack $12 Aunt Sisters Picks

We could also use some greenery.

5 Foot Areca Palm Tree $159 here

Succulent Terrarium Globe with Plants $28 Succulents Galore

That will look good on the console. Now let's get something for the mantle:

San Miguel Apothecary Jars $24.99 Sears.com

This would look cute on the brass tray:

Blue Urchin Bowl $72 Element Clay Studio

And, finally, something to keep cozy by the fire with:

Bamboo and Cotton Throw $90 Burke Decor

Wow, that was a BIG shopping day! I'm exhausted.

And, we still have $534.85 to spare! Tomorrow, we'll do paint and the final reveal!

Have a great day!

Creative Jump-Start

2011-02-10T09:29:00.000-06:00

via