Thursday, May 23, 2013

Pool Art

This warm, sunny weather is making me dream of days spent poolside. I've decided that I want some pool art in my house. Anything to make the summer last longer, right? A big photograph would be perfect. I really like this one, but I can't find the original source (insert sad face). Maybe I could recreate it. Anyone want to paint their nails red and take a dunk for me?




Here are some other good options that could work pretty well too.









I like the vintage vibe that many of these have. And I'm throwing this one in for fun. Here's something you don't see every day! Made me laugh.
 


So, pool art is good or at least some of it is. The above photograph may be an exception although there's something to be said for a little quirk in your home. And this pink reindeer fantasy delivers!

-Sarah


Image Sources: Unknown; Quentin De Briey; Lucy Snowe Photography; Sarah Kane; "The Dive" by Jill Illife; Lucy Snow Photography; David Hockney Paper Pool; via Pinterest


Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Bunk Beds Done Right

If bunk beds are a necessity, then this is the way to do them. Who knew that bunk beds could be, dare I say, stylish?! Maybe a shared room isn't all that bad. I especially like the idea of enclosing each bunk with a curtain. It seems to me the kids would love that - their own little fort or hideaway. Bunks with bang on style.








And look what I found through Restoration Hardware. I had never really looked through their baby/child section before, but they carry some really terrific stuff (of course). Bunk beds that are well designed with some nice detail. Not your average bunks.





 
I have been such a bad blogger lately. The summer tends to do that to me. Hope you don't mind my absence here and there. The sunshine & fresh air calls my name. 

We had friends over this morning. Here was our attempt at a group picture. Ha!



Catch you later!

-Sarah


Image Sources: Tory Burch; Lonny; Pinterest; Vogue



 

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Lighting Loves

Just a few lamps, pendants and chandys that have caught my eye recently. I'm still on the look out for table lamps for that sideboard of ours (since the foo dogs didn't work out), and A's room could use a new fixture, and I'm considering switching out the one in our room too. When we built the house we put in some temporary fixtures to help stay within budget and now those $16 clip lights need to go!

I would love these for the sideboard (at Lulu & Georgia). Unfortunately, they don't ship to Canada so it would be a hassle to get them. Boo. 




This fixture is unique and pretty. It reminds me of a murano glass fixture but looks a little like a sputnik too. Comes in various shapes and sizes. It's a possibility for the master bedroom, and I can get it locally (huge plus!).

Pendant

Semi-Flush Mount



It has a similar look to those vintage, sputnik fixtures that are oh. so. pretty. BUT it's a fraction of the cost. This vintage beauty is well, beautiful but comes at a hefty price point. The one we're considering is much more affordable.



A few other finds that were good and still hanging out in the back of my mind. 

The orbit sputnik at ZGallerie




Sticks Chandelier at Black Rooster. It would be rad if it could somehow be gold though. 





I've always had a soft spot for the Meurice Chandelier by Jonathan Adler. So gorgeous. 



 
I realize none of these are really appropriate for A's room. The verdict is still out on that one. I'm thinking we might shuffle a few things around where she gets a fixture that we already have and then we get something new to fill the empty spot (probably in the front entrance). My hubby isn't really into that idea though. So, we shall see. 

I'm up for something simple and totally affordable like these dome pendants too. 




 
And I ponder.

-Sarah


Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Some Days...

You just want to lay in bed and cuddle.



That lasts for a little while, and then this happens.  




A busy morning of outdoor fun with good friends tired us out. We got our second wind though. Tired is not an option for these two it seems. On to the next thing! 

-Sarah


Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Walls with Gingham Style

Gingham. A charming print that adds instant cozy to any space. It reminds me of an English, country home. True traditionalists will plaster everything in it - walls, curtains, chairs, etc. I prefer a smaller dose. Gingham walls are particularly nice. An over sized buffalo check has a slightly more contemporary look. The smaller check works well in more traditional interiors. As you'll see, it can be used in a variety of spaces, everything from formal dining and living rooms to kid's rooms.












It's a good look and the perfect way to add a little country charm. L's room is going to have some gingham. I think it will work well in his slightly rustic, a little outdoorsy-themed room. (EMMIE RUTA duvet cover set at IKEA.)



Catch you later!

-Sarah


Image Sources: Elle Decor (#2, #5); Jamie Meares (#8); all others via Pinterest


Friday, May 10, 2013

Palm Beach Vacation, Anyone?

The Palm Beach vacation home of Sloan Mauran was featured in House & Home a while back. I like. It's beachy but not too themed. I love the contemporary and mid century vibe. That wonderful terracotta floor adds such patina, but the overall look is modern and sophisticated. 

So, I say we all pack our suitcases and head south. I'm sure Ms. Mauran could put us up for a few nights (ha!). I get the dining room! So what if there's no bed. I'd happily curl up beneath that rams head table for the night. Definitely my favourite room. The yard is a bit of a dream too.










 

Get that Palm Beach Look Mauran Style. Sculptural Lamp, graphic art, vintage-inspired chair, a rams head table, and textural, fur pillows to round things out. Ooolala.




1.  Painting by Brian K. Elston here
2. Brutalist Sculptural Lamp at 1st Dibs
3. Rams Head Coffee Table at 1st Dibs
4. Cameron Armchair at Worlds Away
5. Fur Pillows here


As an aside, I made some Holy Yum Chicken for supper the other night, and yes, it lived up to its name! It was really tasty. As the recipe says, it's mustardy so you have to like mustard. The flavour is strong - you don't want to load up on the sauce (just a little will do). I used chicken breasts and reduced the cooking time to 30 minutes. I would totally make it again. Tasty and moist and well, Holy Yum! 

And with that, it's weekend time. Bring it on!

-Sarah