Perfectly Taylor'd

Gimme Your Art Lulie Wallace.

2012-01-26T00:35:00.002-05:00

Ok, I don't really want Lulie Wallace to just give her paintings to me, but seeing her art made me think of "Bobby Newport's" plea to Leslie Knope regarding the election in last week's episode of Parks & Recreation: "Come on, give me it. Give me it. Gimme it. C’mon gimme it...I’m sorry, please. Please."

Click on her name above to go to her online shop! She was recently featured on Design Sponge. I heart her for her outstandingly happy use of color. Hoping one of her pieces will work for a client! Can't wait!

Vintage Pendant Banner.

2012-01-19T00:58:00.000-05:00

I went antiquing earlier in the week and found some odds and ends that would make the perfect vintage looking pendant banner for a baby shower I am helping to host this February. I used a crocheted table cover, jacquard napkin, and a linen handkerchief. Here's a sneak peek at how it turned out!

Can't wait to see the entire shower come together. I would show you our inspiration board now, but I don't want to ruin the surprise of how it will look for the mom-to-be:)

Sand + Square.

2012-01-18T23:02:00.000-05:00

I had fun so far this week with my new paints on some inexpensive canvases. Since I am drawing a lot of squares lately...I ended up painting a bunch too. Not crazy about the paintings themselves but I do love the quirky mix of colors. One is titled "sand" and the other is "square". I'm sure you gathered that by now but I thought I'd tell you just in case.

Let's Talk.

2012-01-18T01:44:00.000-05:00

Working with two sweet clients this week to find the perfect couch for their den. We began the hunt with sectionals in mind and have now diverted our attention to conversation couches. Have you heard of these before? They have such a fun shape. It's perfect for....conversation! ;)

Designer Barrie Benson in Charlotte, NC must love them because

I see them speckled throughout her work.

Check out her portfolio here.

Have you ever considered a conversation couch? Do you own one?

I like that using one in their space will allow for us to still have an accent chair or two.

There are lots of options out there so I'll let you know what the winning couch is!

Drawing + Hand.

2012-01-11T18:06:00.000-05:00

Happy hump-day friends! This semester has me right where I love to be: sitting at my desk drawing. I've done perspective drawings for clients before, but knew that since I hadn't been through the very semester I am in right now, that there were major problems with the way I created a drawing of a room. I am excited to start from scratch so that I can learn the right process and approach to hand drawing and drafting. My professor compared it last night to working with a recipe for a meal. She said that once we are so comfortable with the "ingredients" to a good drawing, we won't have to pay so much attention to the recipe anymore. I HAVE to use recipes when cooking because, darn it, I just can't get the hang of it. But drawing...I think I'll one day be able to do it without cracking the "cook book" open;)

Here are a few of my drawings sans training:

I can't wait to have more knowledge and practice under my belt. I'll be sure to show you drawings from class as I get better with it.

In the meantime, I'll be reading my professor's new blog: Drawing + Hand.

She's going to be posting tips, articles, and anything else related to hand drawing on it! I love this professor because it is obvious that she is passionate about what she does and the field she is in. It makes her a wonderful teacher!

Check out some of her work below and see more at Stephanie Sipp Art.

Till next time... xo

Birthday.

2012-01-09T15:07:00.001-05:00

Since I turn yet another year older today, I bought myself some drafting supplies (for class) and paints (for fun) at Reddi-Arts.

I am inspired lately by work like Sarah Giannobile's:

{central park}

{landscape art}

I love her colors and the way she uses geometric shapes from time to time.

I also picked up some snazzy earrings from a new local boutique in our five points area called Jane Doe.

Aren't they "so special, so nice"? ;)

Tonight I begin another semester of classes. It kind of sucks that it is starting on my birthday but at the same time I am eager to kick off being a 28yr old while discussing all things architecture, drafting & design.

A Perfectly Project: Living + Dining Rooms for an Avondale Family.

2012-01-02T11:29:00.000-05:00

Lots of progress this past week for a current project for a beautiful home in a historic Jacksonville neighborhood. A custom tablecloth for a side table {shown above} was finished and we found lots of goodies at San Marco Antique Market.

The hunt for the perfect china cabinet has been difficult, but at just over $500, this beauty is the winning piece! Sorry for the blurry camera phone pics!

These Pembroke style end tables will look great on either side of a love seat that is soon to be picked up from my re-upholsterer. I can't wait to see it all come together!

Mad Abut Monday + New Years Wishes.

2012-01-02T10:57:00.000-05:00

How was your New Years weekend? I worked through it, but managed to get in some "quality" celebration time in between. I love this time of year because my birthday falls so close to New Years that it is even more of a reflective time than perhaps it is for most. In all facets of life I am preparing for a completely new season. With my recent change of job and new focus on school and building Perfectly Taylor'd Interiors, I am extremely excited to move forward into 2012. The transition was hectic and messy while I worked both jobs and endured finals at the same time. My projects moved along slowly, but now that the holidays are through - game on! I hope you have lots of good things to look forward to in 2012 and that it is a great year all around!

On another note, I am mad-cray-cray-in-love with the rice packs I gave out as gifts on Christmas. I need to make one for myself instead of borrowing the ones I gave to people. I hope they love their packs as much as I do! ;) Nothing is better than something warm soothing your sore neck after a long day!

Last year for New Years I posted my favorite picture from 2010. Here's my favorite from 2011:

My nephew during some bath time pictures we took. His first year of life has changed my and my family's lives for the better for sure. I wonder if pictures of him will be my favorites from now on? Highly likely;)

xoxo

Tay

Mad About Monday.

2011-12-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

I loved all my gifts this year, but this Monday I wanted to post about a certain gift I received that I think sums up my New Year's resolution.

{Letter Happy}

Thank you SO much friend that took the time to get this and put it in a frame for me! It is perfect!

Do what you love and LOVE what you do in 2012 people! <3

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T11:54:00.000-05:00

I hope you are having a blessed and joyful holiday weekend!

xo,

Taylor + Darby

A Perfectly Project: Living & Dining for MK.

2011-12-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

A recent client approached me for some direction on her living & dining areas. Here are my design boards for her. She already has some great new furniture but asked for some ideas on how to pull everything together. For product info or for your own e-design consultation, please contact me at perfectlytaylord@gmail.com :)

A Busy {Christmas} Bee.

2011-12-19T13:42:00.002-05:00

I finished my Christmas shopping and now I am working on wrapping the store bought items and making the rest. I just realized that I wish I could thank Darby of Fly Through Our Window in person, because over the years she has given me so many recipes and templates that allow me to wow the special people in my life with things like honey butter and rice packs. Turns out she is starting to get well deserved recognition for her Christmas craftiness and was featured in Mobile Bay Magazine recently. Check out part of the article online!

I also went to see the lights in St. Augustine Friday night. It's a great tradition to take a stroll through St. George Street and the surrounding area this time of year. Here are a few shots from my evening:

Awe.

Horses, horses, horses...

Boa! nbd.

This is by far one of my favorite shots of the year...

that guy was playing great jazz and was so happy to be doing it.

Rachel insisted on taking my picture to ensure that people knew I was there. ;)

Good times.

Mad About Monday.

2011-12-19T13:14:00.001-05:00

Let's talk holiday style today. From the home you live in to the tip of your head, there are some little touches that can make Christmas week a little more special. If you are like me, you have been rushing around so much that decorating for your home or dressing yourself for this merry little week has just now become the focus. Here are some quick suggestions to dress things up a bit:

1) Do something different with your hair:

See this Braided Top Bun tutorial and other ways to snazz up your do' at Cup of Jo.

2) Break out a blazer:

I found one at J Crew similar to the above for under $100 (on clearance of course). This structured look is great when paired with bright holiday colors and can dress up a pair of skinny jeans in an instant.

3) Add blush:

My long time favorite: Nars: The Multiple Orgasm shimmer stick adds a subtle glow to your everyday makeup and has a name that you can laugh about. Win-win.

4) Grab some new pillow covers:

Grab a few new pillow covers to freshen up your current selection.

Best part? You can break these out next year too!

Ho Ho Ho pillow cover shown above is from Joshua By Oak but I suggest this, this, and this too.

5) When in doubt, add Mercury Glass.

Mercury glass is classic but happens to be the hot ticket item this season.

Put some on your table, your mantel, or simply add a couple votives to an end table.

I've seen some great pieces at Ballard Designs (shown above), West Elm, and Target.

Have fun getting you and your home dressed up!! xo

Portraits.

2011-12-16T10:05:00.000-05:00

My photography was featured yesterday on my friend Erin's blog {Isaboo Designs} and that reminded me that I need to give you an update on all the portraits I have taken in the month of December. It sure has been fun using my hobby to capture the love of these families into little images.

The Russell Family

The Heiden Family

The Thoele Family

Engagement session for Brandi & Randy...getting married this February!

Crafting + Christmas.

2011-12-12T14:10:00.002-05:00

The other night at mi casa we had a girl's night to do some crafts we saw on Pinterest or other blogs. We made ornaments (seen above), mini works of art, and felt magnets. I was SUPPOSED to also make these huge glass/glitter ball ornaments but I had an epic fail trying to find the floor wax needed for it. Yes, I said floor wax. A trip to Lowe's is in my near future.

Martha Stewart: Why are your cookie cutter ornaments so fricking difficult (the girls that made them worked SO hard at it!) and WHY does your glitter set cost $30????

p.s. And why is your stuff so awesome that I spent the $30 anyway??

Not quite sure what to do with my mini paintings other than have them at each seat at the Christmas dinner table. They can be favors for the evening. I saw something similar one time but they were used as favors at a wedding.

Ta-da!

Casey came up with the brilliant idea to make these felt flower magnets. I think they would make fantastic little stocking stuffers! That pic is too dark but the next ones show them off better.

What's are you crafting for Christmas? I have a TON more to make. And we have how many days till Christmas?? EEEEK!

Till next time...:)

Mad About Monday.

2011-12-12T13:10:00.000-05:00

Dear followers:

My most sincere apology for being completely MIA the last few...days...weeks? Month?? When I announced that it was my last week working for the firm I have been with for over 8 years, what I really meant it was my last three weeks:) I stayed on to help a bit with a project and also started my new job, a part time position at West Elm. That, plus finals and well, regular life, took precedence over the blog. But oh, how I have missed it, and you all! Usually when I am neglecting my blog I still have time to browse your blogs but that wasn't the case this time!

To celebrate my new job at West Elm, a company that is so supportive and excited about my goals in decorating, I want to share with you my top 4 gift picks from the store. I had to do this as an exercise the other day and I really am in love with each of these objects!

My NUMBER ONE favorite: The Kantha Throw. Each one is handmade in India out of vintage saris. The detail and stitching on each of them is impeccable. Each one is like no other, so if you give one to your sister, brother, spouse, etc...you can tell them they are getting a one of a kind piece of art!

For the person who has everything: a Glass Shadow Box is the perfect place to display their favorite possessions!

Paper Mache Stag Heads are handmade in Haiti, so again, you are getting a one of a kind piece when you get or give these this year. A portion of the proceeds goes back to the artisans that make these (with the Kantha throws as well). The idea of giving back is strong at West Elm and I like it ;)

Last, but certainly not least, our natural Agate book ends make the perfect addition to anyone's book shelf. All of them are unique (can you tell I enjoy one of a kind things??).

Another cool thing about West Elm? They have a blog: Front & Main. You can find cool shizzy there like this image of a custom pink Parsons Desk:

Love it! And more to come on the other projects up my sleeve lately!

xo Tay

Mad About Monday.

2011-11-14T12:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!!!

Why is this Monday special for you? For me - it is my LAST day working at the place I have worked for nearly a decade. I can't even believe it. I'll be spending more time finishing school and working on decorating for sweet people like you! More on that later.

To celebrate, let's look at a collection of Etsy throw pillows in my favorite colors: blue + white.

{YaiYai's}

{Cecil Clyde}

{My Vintage Monkey}

{Sew Hip and Humble}

{Vintage Junky Style}

J'adore.

2011-11-03T16:08:00.000-04:00

{Lonny}

Blue + white bliss...add in that gigantor mirror, and striped rug and you get heaven.

Mad About {Halloween} Monday.

2011-10-31T10:47:00.001-04:00

For someone that loves to decorate, it is hard for me to spend money on specifically seasonal decor. Why? Maybe because it kills me to purchase something that will only be out on display for a month or so, only to then take up room in storage boxes ( in an area that is already packed to the brim.) I also change my mind a lot - so the color scheme I picked this year might not be the route I want to go the next year and so on...I also say all of this now, but you just wait until I go to Michael's with my 40% off coupons and hit up the Christmas section! I'll be singing to a different tune;)

This leads us to today's Mad About Monday, where I will share with you some items that hint at the spookiness of Halloween but can still be used year round in your home.

{Hibu Chat painting from Anthropologie}

{Ghostly white Parachute Duvet from West Elm}

{Smith & Hawkin wood chip wreath at Target}

{Black, white and orange Tribal Jute Rug from West Elm}

{Iron Bowmont Mirror from Anthropologie}

Happy Halloween!

xoxo

Straight {Second} Shooter : Part 2

2011-10-19T00:07:00.001-04:00

Carmen and I also hopped behind the camera (and an antique picture frame too)!

Casey took those of me...

I was obsessed with the red lanterns being in the background but as Carmen pointed out - this wasn't the best part of the sidewalk when it comes to light. I agree, but I still love these of her because they are colorful and fun!

Heart this one by the mirror wall.

We needed to move with the setting sun, so we headed closer to the highway to finish up.

These next few make me feel like Casey is a country singer and we were shooting for her upcoming album:)

So golden and happy!

There you have it, folks! A photographic duo is born. Woohoo!

xoxo. Tay

Straight {Second} Shooter.

2011-10-18T01:22:00.001-04:00

I have some news!

A very talented photographer friend of mine, Carmen, of Carmen Cay Photography, has asked me to be her second shooter.

such. an. honor.

Even though I am working towards the long-term goal of mine to be an interior designer (did you just roll your eyes and say "duh"?), photography is a passion that I have always had and love to explore. You have probably noticed that part of me seeping out in some of my posts. For pretty much every design blog I follow, I am following a photography blog as well.

To prepare for working with a photographer, and also to try out my new lens, Carmen and I dressed my gorgeous-o friend Casey up and trotted her around down town Jax! I have a maternity shoot scheduled for next weekend and I am so thankful that I had the chance to practice.

This first post will highlight the beginning of our shoot. It took place right outside the old library.

I like these above, but Carmen was quick to point out the importance of avoiding glare on lenses. Having Casey tilt her head slightly in most instances fixed that, and it made such a big difference on the quality of the shots.

Stick around..more to come!

xoxo. Tay

My Obsession With Famous Amos.

2011-10-12T16:30:00.001-04:00

I don't know if Famous Amos (the restaurant) is unique unto Jacksonville, so let me tell you that they serve very Cracker Barrel-ish food. And this is not the Famous Amos I am obsessed with.

The Famous Amos I am referring to is the name of the cookie brand. You may have had a bag of them before...in your lunch. When you were 6 years old.

Someone at work keeps supplying me with a bag of these small chocolate chip delights every single afternoon.

And I am in the middle of mid-terms.

So to say I have had time to run so that I can burn off these fabulous cookies is something to laugh at.

This afternoon I clicked through my fashion blogs for an update on what to wear (for studying? why do I care) and I saw this:

And as I scowled, I popped another cookie in my mouth.

The guilt of denying my body the exercise it so needs creeped on in.

Then I scrolled further to find this lady in all her glory.

And now I know that it is completely kosher to wear men's pajamas out in public. That's something my thighs would be comfortable in!

Thank you, you fashionista of Milan, for making my calorie infested obsession o.k. Sigh of relief :)

Pictures via Sartorialist

Free Peonies .

2011-10-08T10:46:00.000-04:00

This is my latest painting, "Free Peonies."

Disclaimer: I am having fun learning how to do this on my own,

but I wish I could have formal training!

The title has a little something to do with how wonderful

it would be to get bouquets of peonies for free,

but it is also symbolistic of any blessing in your life that was free.

Something you didn't even wish for, but looking back,

you realize you couldn't have done without.

My peonies aren't going to stay on that wall but I like them there for right now.

What are the "free peonies" in your life?

J'adore.

2011-10-06T14:30:00.001-04:00

Oh, Eddie Ross, how I love the way you style a space.

He designed the vignette above for Bloomingdale's - and I am certain that people will want to

purchase everything they can to create a room like this! He did such a wonderful job pulling it all together.

Some of my favorite things in the room are actually from thrift or antique stores!
Read his blog post for details.

A Month to Be Perfectly Pink .

2011-10-04T12:17:00.001-04:00

{Black & Spiro}

{Absolutely Beautiful Things}

{Martha Stewart}

{Janet Hill}

This month is national breast cancer awareness month.

Decorate with something pink

to help you remember those who

are battling in the fight against cancer.

Much love to all those
who are in the middle of the battle right now,
or have lost a loved one to this horrible disease.

Antiques, Garden Stools & Other News.

2011-10-04T01:38:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I spent most of Saturday and Sunday doing one of my most favorite of activities: Antiquing. The combination of hunting for specific items and the belief that I really will find them at the price I have in mind gets me so excited.

That, and finding unexpected treasures (that I can't afford but can drool over) like old Coca-Cola coolers. That big one one costs $400! Yikes! I like my diet coke but it looks like it can stay in my regular cooler during outdoor functions.

My next stop that day took me to Park Street Antiques. I was so impressed by the selection, pricing, and owner. I loved a lot of what I saw but sadly, didn't need any of it for the client I was shopping for.

Gold star goes to the reader that can find me in the picture above ;)

I think that seeing this chest of drawers is what made me fall in love with the place...because look how pretty and can you guess the price? Right around $500. #eatyourheartoutoverpricedfurniturestores

They have an A.DOR.A.BLE cottage out back surrounded by garden accessories. I stood by these two beauties (very reasonably priced) and texted two friends feverishly asking if they wanted me to grab them. While I waited on replies, I had a long conversation with another friend who is in Canada right now (well, she came back today). When I got off the phone no one had responded back, which I found very uncharacteristic of my garden-stool-savvy friends, so I moved on in my antiquing adventure. Later, I was contacted for details on the location and my dear friend, Amanda, and her hubby went right over and purchased both! I was so glad to help. Any garden stool that is less than $50 is a prize.

What are your thoughts on these chairs? I found them at the San Marco Antique Mart and haven't been able to get them out of my mind. I really dislike the way they are finished, including the fabric. Mostly because there is no way that zebra anything will find its way into the dining room I need these for. Trying to picture them with a fresh coat of stain and a green french ticking stripe linen on the seats....

I also found these and loved them. Loved the price too. Couldn't bring myself to purchase them yet. Perhaps I will if I decide to go back and get the chairs.

honk. honk-honk.

In "other news" I recently acquired new lenses. For-to take better pictures of Darby with. Although closer inspection of that one tells me I have no clue what I am doing yet with the 50mm prime. Practice makes purrrfect.

till next time,

xo.

Mad About Monday.

2011-10-04T00:48:00.000-04:00

...I missed Monday by an hour but who's checking?...

3 classes, decorating, and my um job, sure can get in the way of blogging. cheers to back-to-back MAM posts!

~~Lately~~ Lates I am digging constellations. Starry skies are whimsical and just make me get all nostalgic. Starry maps can be used in your decor, your wardrobe, wherever!

{unknown besides pinterest}

{stitch along}

for that little girl in your life

{monkey and the bug}

{nature's cubby hole}

{urban}

Mad About Monday.

2011-09-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

I refrained from purchasing more sheepskin throws at Ikea.

I did however, pet them. I sighed a little at them too and then took another bite of my Ikea-food-court chocolate chip cookie.

I ended up purchasing 2 1/1 yards of this fabric:

{britten nummer}

What to do with it...what. to. do.

Maybe I will frame some of it?

Showering ...

2011-09-25T15:00:00.000-04:00

...is good to get you clean - and it is also a great thing to do for mothers-to-be. Shower them with gifts, that is.

Here are a couple shots from the one I attended this weekend and another from a couple weeks ago:

{Those were for baby Zeke's shower}

{and those were for John Bryan's shower!}

What a happy time to have so many new babies!

Bon Voyage .

2011-09-23T09:04:00.000-04:00

I'm leaving the ~~comfort of my office~~ ...err... getting up from my desk and heading out of town today for an old friend's birthday/baby shower weekend. Speaking of comfort in the office:

I am considering stopping at Ikea along the way to grab like 20 more faux-fur throws. Darby has decided that my old one is her new bed. Wouldn't it make my home office (and office-office) more comfy cozy?

Heck, they make anything more comfy.

P.S. I want those chairs, those rugs, those pillows, that silk lotus light fixture,

the oversized cloud photography...did I leave anything out?

Images found here and here.

What is Black + White + Pink All Over?

2011-09-21T08:30:00.001-04:00

That would be my style at the moment. The mildly surprising part is all the pink I've been drawn to.

Here are some of my recent pins :

loose curls.

boots. black. big clutch.

polka dots.

black. white. tan. stripes.

for a casual cool day. sans the headband...

chic but comfy.

stripes again. and pink...?

more pink. and cheetah! rawwr!

What kind of style are you trying to work towards for fall?

Is your focus more on your home or wardrobe right now?

Consider This :

2011-09-20T08:19:00.000-04:00

{found via Pinterest from Dear Inspiration}

A Friendly Reminder

2011-09-20T00:14:00.000-04:00

...that space planning goes beyond your living room when you are looking for a new couch.

PIVOT!!!!!

J'adore.

2011-09-19T15:00:00.003-04:00

{via LGN}

Blue + White in a really cozy/lacquered/classy way.

Mad About Monday.

2011-09-19T08:00:00.002-04:00

Good morning folks and welcome to a new week.

On my mind this Monday?

These images of a Brooklyn loft:

Have you ever seen so many mortar & pestles in your life??

Those swinging seats! That table!

Those light fixtures! That countertop??!

Get outta' town.

Fo - yers Enjoyment .

2011-09-14T10:14:00.000-04:00

Foyers are tricky, aren't they? Other than the front of your home, it is one of the first things a visitor will see when they enter your abode. Like a receptionist at a business or an invitation to a party, a foyer should be a small example of the big picture. I've been hunting for ideas for a client's (rather large) entryway. There are actually several options to go with as opposed to some foyers which leave you with one small wall to stick a demi-lune and call it a day. Here are some interesting and pretty images I found while on my hunt.

{Antonia Hutt via Decorpad}

Sunbursts just don't get old. That table is, but I dig the details.

{Andre Rothblatt Architecture via Decorpad}

Does that fixture remind anyone else of a spider?

{Decorpad}

Cool mirror. I like all the stools.

{Ken Gemes via Decorpad}

Don't miss the sweet bike up on that shelf!

{Lonny}

I heart the celedon green door...the neutrals...the humongo vase with branches...the crest lions on the accent pillow...the skirted ottomans...the photography...the accent light fixtures...EVERYTHING.

{Phoebe Howard}

And last. but not least, symmetry at its best.

Marketa's Goin' Solo!

2011-09-13T14:56:00.000-04:00

A lot of music has a way of getting me pumped up...but nothing has ever touched me as much as The Swell Season and their belted out lyrics of heartache, joy, and life in general. The name of the band came from a poem of the same title which repeats that "the poet makes grief beautiful." So appropriate for their style. I love to put their live DVD in and turn it way up while I paint or work on other projects. Anywho... I just found out via American Songwriter that one of the lead singers {Marketa Irglova} is going solo and her new album, Anar, will be released soon and I am so excited!

Check out a trailer promoting Anar here.

An article today on Apartment Therapy gives 5 free ways to make your house/apartment a home.

#4 is to turn on some music while you do everyday activities.

Now you know what I'm playing ...what do you play when you're at home?

I've Been Making Things.

2011-09-12T22:09:00.000-04:00

...and sharing them with others.

It's been fun!! I love to create.

What have you been making lately? Do share! I have seen some awesome DIY projects lately via the web.

xo

Mad About Monday.

2011-09-12T14:20:00.000-04:00

These bright, joyful paintings are giving me a lifted outlook on the week ahead. I read an article on Etsy about the artist, Linda Monfort. They asked her what the title of her memoir would be (if she had one) and she replied "I Used the Gift God Gave Me." She also went on to say that even though she struggled to make a living as an artist, she "couldn't imagine (my) life without the ability to create." I'm glad she has developed her art because I love her work!

{Ablaze}

{Wandering Without Purpose}

{Joyful Feeling}

A Perfectly Project: Fabric for a San Marco Home.

2011-09-05T12:02:00.000-04:00

Here is a little collage of the fabric choices I made a while back for a good friend. She had picked out the furniture she wanted from Bassett, but had me choose the fabrics with her. Bassett has so many options to choose from - it was hard to narrow it down! I simply adore the tweed on the wing back. Would you believe it reclines?! Talk about classic meeting up with comfort! Oh and do you see the little doggies? They were following me around so I decided they could be in just one picture;)

Mad About Monday.

2011-09-05T09:00:00.001-04:00

Couldn't you just dive into these deep blue Moroccan floor tiles? I found this image over at YHL.

Get yourself a similar type - great for a colorful blue back splash - at Overstock.

Speaking of blue..I think it is time to go jump in the pool! Happy Labor Day Monday!

Swing Low.

2011-09-02T21:00:00.001-04:00

I saw this and immediately thought of my goof friend Joy. She adores the bed swing at Plumb Orchard.

{Barnwood Hanging Bed from Anthro}

Where would you put this?

I think it would be amazing at a beach house, or on a big screened in porch.

Perfect for naps!

Comerford Collection.

2011-09-01T17:00:00.002-04:00

Just found the Comerford Collection via Belle Vivir. While I don't typically gravitate towards the sort of modern furniture and accessories they sell, I found myself loving these items:

{Hothouse #5 by Jodi Morlock}

{Italian Rocker}

{Double Gllaze Stool}

If you tend to lean one way or the other (traditional or modern) I firmly believe you should have a few items in your home that stand out from what you normally choose.

The differences will compliment each other if chosen wisely.

Cute Baby, Geraldo & More.

2011-09-01T01:29:00.000-04:00

Well folks, fall semester has begun with a bang and I can honestly say that I can see the light at the end of my tunnel as far as FSCJ f/k/a FCCJ a/f/k/a Fruit Juice is concerned. I was really struggling over the summer because there weren't any classes available for me to take (and when that happens I feel like this season of my life will never ever ever ever end) but now that I have three this term (and a game plan that is rock solid moving forward) I feel a huge sigh of relief coming on. One great thing about a semester off from school was not only the ability to work on that project I mentioned in this post but also all the opportunities I had to head out and enjoy capturing my life into little images. Thought it would be fun to share some of my favorites with you. Here they are in no particular order:

Scratch that. My MOST favorite image comes first. This is my nephew everyone. I don't think I introduced him properly the last time? His name is Abraham but I call him Abe and he ~~calls~~ will call me AunTay. He is literally the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.

Flowers, obvi. Family, not so obvi, in the background.

I just took this one a couple weeks ago so it gets to sneak in as technically being considered "summer." New project in Avondale. With a look so gorgeous to begin with, I am so excited to be working on this one!

This just makes me giggle every time I scroll past it in my albums. Oh, Geraldo. What will we do with you and that stache? Taken while watching an update of the Casey Anthony trial.

A couple friends were leaving to move to Cali so naturally we all sent them off with an "awkward family" photo.

Sneak peek of pregnancy shots taken for a friend!

This made me dizzy, but it was taken while on a fa-ba-lus vacation to the gulf.

During a Matisyahu show.

During my bro-in-law's show. That's him on the far left.

Citronella candles will soon turn into bon fires and such. Bring it.

xo,

Taylor

Mad About Monday.

2011-08-29T15:56:00.000-04:00

I adore this colorful "Baja" pouf from Urban. I wish I could rest my feet on it right now.

A Perfectly Project: Where Families Grow

2011-08-27T21:57:00.001-04:00

Over the summer I've been working with a children's behavioral clinic to help them spruce up their therapy rooms, offices, lobby, and other miscellaneous work rooms. What a learning experience! My typical projects (even in class) primarily involve residential spaces. This project was not only commercial; it involved multiple rooms and (because of the type of work they do plus the age range of the children) there were tons of factors to take into consideration with each and every item purchased. I feel blessed to not only get to work on such a project, but to have been introduced to the type of work they do at such a special place.

Some rooms are still being finished up, but I want to share the

before and afters of the lobby and two therapy rooms.

{Lobby Before}

{Lobby After}

{Small Therapy Room Before}

{Small Therapy Room After}

{Large Therapy Room Before}

{Large Therapy Room After}

In each space, we've incorporated old, new, and donated items.

I think the result is pretty cheerful, don't you?

*All artwork by Mackenzie Thorpe

J'adore.

2011-08-26T13:48:00.000-04:00

{ Max & Co / Phoebe Howard via Decorpad }

Let Them Eat {a Happy} Cake.

2011-08-25T13:04:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the beautiful cake prints that Paul Ferney has available of his cake paintings? Paul's wife is Jordan of Oh Happy Day. I'm thinking of using a set of three or four in a client's dining room. The hardest part is choosing which ones to use!

Yum!!

Awesome Armillary d - i - y.

2011-08-23T12:48:00.002-04:00

A big thanks to Cindy for pointing me in the direction of this DIY by Vintage Revivals:

{DIY Lamp: VR}

So creative! Go check it out!

Armillary Iron Sphere Lighting

2011-08-23T08:15:00.002-04:00

In the recent issue of House Beautiful, something caught my eye:

{Bill Ingram}

It wasn't the amazing painted stripes on the floor.

It wasn't the cute brass fixtures in the kitchen,

or even the perfect teeny tiny table in front of the teeny tiny couch.

I'm sure the title of this post gave this away, but what caught my eye was

the armillary inspired sphere light!

{Circa Lighting}

The armillary sphere, which consists of different rings,

was used as a model way back when to demonstrate the paths of the planets and the zodiac.

Now the interlocking rings can serve as inspiration in our everyday decor.

{Home Depot}

{Unique Iron Lighting}

If you never picked up the July/August issue of House Beautiful,

you need to either look online or borrow it from someone dear -

with people like Bill Ingram featured in it there is

something precious to devour on each page!

Mad About Monday

2011-08-22T08:27:00.000-04:00

Fall is right around the bend...bringing with it all things woodsy, plaid, and dark.

{via VT Interiors blog}

{Tom Scheerer}

{Design Sponge}

{Scent of Obsession}

I'm personally most crazy about the idea of less than 100 degree temps than I am fall interiors/clothing! ;)

I Like Big...Buns...

2011-08-19T11:59:00.002-04:00

{the Sartorialist}

...and I cannot lie...

{hair on the brain: messy bun how-to}

Try as I might to keep my hair down all day...the end result is typically a messy bun. Good thing I like em'!

Services + Investment for 2011-2012

2011-08-15T22:23:00.009-04:00

10/4/11 - I am now booked through January!! Thanks for the love and support. If you are interested in my services but have time to spare, I can schedule projects that begin mid January 2012.

Help a design student get through school and build her portfolio. If you are interested in my decorating services, please contact me at: perfectlytaylord@gmail.com.

Perfectly Simple: The E-Decorating Package

When you only have 1 to 2 rooms that need decorating guidance.

$75 per Design Board + Source List

* One house visit for consultation (if in the greater Jacksonville, FL area)

* E-mail exchange in which you send me current pictures of the space you
wish to have decorated (if long distance)

* Design Board(s)

* List of Sources and Summary of the Concept.

You can choose to execute all, some, or none of my ideas. You also handle all shopping/purchasing/installment of the items you do purchase.

If you do choose to use the ideas I give you, I would love to get “after” pictures of the space. If you are local I can take them and if you are long distance then please shoot & send to me.

Perfectly Complex: The All-Inclusive Package

When you need direction for an entire home or other space (3 rooms +)

This is only for those within short travel distance from Jacksonville, FL.

Billed at $18 an hour w/ $100 deposit upfront.

* In-home consultations at beginning + throughout the project to see it through to
the end.

* Design Board for each room.

* List of sources and summary of the Concept.

* Help with furniture + accessory + art placement.

* Shopping trips as needed.

* Custom sewing of curtains + pillows as needed.

* Coordination w/ sub-contractors such as re-upholsterer/painter as needed.

You give me direction as to what your heart desires for your space and I help you as much or as little as you need in executing that vision. I will work hard to decorate for you in the shortest amount of time possible, because let’s face it; you deserve a beautiful home that is perfectly “you”!

Perfectly to the Point: The Question Package

When a decorating question has you stumped and you need someone that knows where to look for the answers. Let’s say you have four accent chairs and need to know which two to keep and then what type of fabric to recover them in. I am here to give you one consultation to point you in the right direction.

$25… or a basket of home baked scones. I would be equally happy with either;)

Mad About Monday.

2011-08-15T22:13:00.000-04:00

It has been forever since my last "M.A.M." post! Geez! Let's have one full of the trend that I cannot get enough of this summer. If you have been on the fence of whether or not to invest in some ikat, here are a few choices that I think could add some of the pattern to your space without overwhelming you with trendy-ness.

1. & 4. = Alexa rugs from Overstock

2. = Company C, "cipriani" fabric by the yard in pewter

3. = Company C, "natalya" quilt & sham

5. = Anthropologie "astrid" chair in ikat

6. = Koko Co. "java ikat" pillow from Burkedecor

You might be thinking to yourself that #s 3 and 6 are pretty bright. Have no fear. Paired with neutral surroundings, the quilt or accent pillow can add just the right amount of color this summer. They can also be easily swapped out for something else in the winter.

Wake Up.

2011-08-15T21:30:00.002-04:00

This is one of my latest paintings. I am calling it "Wake Up" because of a song I recently heard that has a main line that says "wake up the normal life". It's someone asking for their life to be changed. My life has never felt "normal" and for whatever it is worth, I am definitely thankful for that fact. It points me towards something bigger than myself.

This painting, and others, are currently on display and for sale at The Green Room Salon off of Kingsley Ave. in the Orange Park (Doctor's Lake) area. If you are ever interested in anything I have painted and can't make it out there, please e-mail me at perfectlytaylord@gmail.com.

Deep Thoughts & Such.

2011-08-02T11:40:00.000-04:00

{little girl in Paris via HiP Paris}

It is SO easy to complain. Do you feel the same way? It is like trash just flowing from my mouth and it always manages to make me feel worse and dirtier than before I opened my big yapper. It also makes me feel like I am still a toddler. Sadface. Am I complaining about complaining now? The road I am on to achieve my goals is a long one (didn't you read my "about me" on the right?). When you are working towards something it sure is easy to compare where you are at the moment to where you want to be (I feel like those are lyrics to a song...). Like Jordan says, here, you just have to "put your head down and work. really good things are just around the corner."

Here are some non-deep-happy things to look at:

I don't own a t.v. so I didn't realize that the phrase "Winning!" was something Charlie Sheen started. Fail.

I used these carpet tiles by Flor in the project I've been working on this summer. Pictures soon.

For the same project, but in a different room I am using this fabric. It is definitely happy!

My friend Joy started blogging! She is my travel/cooking/entertaining guru - check her out!

Had a good hearty laugh or two when I saw this over the weekend.

Till next time,

xo Tay

See you later, Alligator.

2011-07-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

I have a lot to get done this week (who doesn't?) so I will be popping in and out of the blog world. But here is my latest venture in the world of DIY gifts. No, I didn't make the gator...I ran out of burp cloths so I purchased him to add something special because as sweet as a DIY gift is, I felt that I couldn't just make two burp cloths and call it a day.

Happy Wednesday!

Perfectly: Green + Purple

2011-07-25T16:22:00.001-04:00

Maybe you've already seen this in the blog-o-sphere, but the most recent issue of House Beautiful had me swooning this weekend when I perused images of the most adorable-yet-sophisticated, under 300 square feet apartment EVER which was decorated by Nick Olsen. The last time I used green and purple as a color scheme was back in the early 90's when I painted my bedroom a bright shade of lavender. I had teal plaid on my bed............wicked cool sounding, right?!...not so much. This fresh take has me super excited!

The DIY chevron dresser, faux-paneled doors, Schumacher upholstered headboard, ruffled curtains, and the Mexican serape covered chair - I love it all. Oh and the oversized art above the love seat AND the sea grass floor cover.

You know who else covered something with a serape? Jamie at Furbish:

Pretty sure that's a Greek key Trina Turk rug that the serape covered bench is on top of...and that's a glorious golden garden stool in front. And the dog...my heart.

The Chesterfield Has a Son.

2011-07-19T00:08:00.000-04:00

And his name is Chester:

I am in love with it! West Elm has some pretty amazing new arrivals including fabric design by Allegra Hicks. If you live in Jacksonville, you NEED to stop by West Elm at the Town Center to see the floor display of the Chester. This picture does not do it justice.

In other news I am also excited about these Dwell Studio covered chairs via Crate & Barrel:

This room featured in a recent issue of Architectural Digest in all it's China Seas glory:

The new Robert Allen fabric line at Calico Corners:

This co-ed baby shower invite by Calliespondence.com (helping plan a co-ed shower right now! fun!):

And last, but certainly not least, Jacqueline, Kathryn Ireland's housekeeper:

Forget Mary McDonald, Jacqueline is certainly my new style guru. Million Dollar Decorators is FABULOUS. I thought I would hate it actually but with characters like the most precious french housekeeper in the world; I will be checking Hulu like a hawk for updated episodes.

What are you into right now?

Handmade.

2011-07-14T21:52:00.000-04:00

Painted and sewed gifts for a crafty momma last week. Seeing as she really is super crafty, I felt like there was no other way to go than handmade for her baby! I can't wait to see her new little girl's nursery!!

Other girls felt the same about giving her homemade items:) I loved seeing what everyone came up with..such creative people!

She was also given a knitting set from someone...so she can learn a new craft to share with her second child:)

I have another shower to attend next week and I am excited to sew for that one too! Lots of exclamation points in this post! Can! you! tell! I! like! babies! and! sewing!?!

If I Were a Settee ...

2011-07-10T00:35:00.000-04:00

I would want to look JUST like the one I just had reupholstered. Since I am not a settee, I will just lay across it feeling lovely.

Before:

After:

Darby hearts the settee too.

I couldn't be more happy with the results!

Need help getting something reupholstered? Not sure if the item you have is worth the investment? Can't decide on the right fabric? E-mail me at: perfectlytaylord@gmail.com. I can help!

Wow.

2011-07-07T07:59:00.000-04:00

In the same spirit as my recent post titled "Inspiration Leads to Creation", check this out:

"If we are created to create, we must confront the impatience within our own souls, and then say "No" to a society that tells us to rush ourselves and bypass the process. Over and over again I meet young and old aspiring artists and musicians who are living in extreme anxiety. Hearts buckling under the pressure of a few heavy questions. "Is life as an artist feasable? Is it practical? Could I provide for myself with this work? Could I support a wife and a newborn child?". These are realistic questions, but if one doesn't stay on gaurd, unneeded fear and anxiety can worm their way into the decision making process of day to day living. One temptation is to disengage from actively taking risks with our time and our art. When this happens, money and comfort have taken priority over the inner desire to create and explore. All too often the art then becomes a hobby or a pastime activity that is relegated to an evening here and a free saturday morning there. For most, these focused moments of creation can be life-giving, but for the one who has been called to the work and has a fire in their bones to create, this will not be enough. They will not be able to shake the feeling of unfulfillment, for they are not only cheating themselves, but those who would be positively affected by their work."

The guy that said that is giving away a free album download of his latest work. So encouraging. Makes me want to take both risks and enjoy the stage I am at right now all at the same time.

Let's Be Friends ...

2011-07-07T00:15:00.000-04:00

...dear, sweet, kitchen cart of mine.

Please don't let the fact that I don't know where to put the 4 screws left

over after putting you together make you fall to pieces in the middle of the night...

J'adore.

2011-07-07T00:02:00.001-04:00

I heart this dining room with its bright red chairs, big art, and bold fixtures.

{The Selby}

Allen Wrench + Me = Winner

2011-07-06T09:57:00.000-04:00

I had an install of several pieces of furniture at a client's business last week and quickly figured out how well I can handle an Allen wrench. Not to boast or anything, but I'm kind of awesome at it ;) Isn't it frustrating though when furniture needs to be put together after you've purchased it? I mean, I liked the way it looked when I saw it in the store or online...why can't it come that way? I wish that it was possible to ship things without having to break them down first. For the 8 or so chair legs I had to screw in, it wasn't bad at all. I purchased two kitchen carts, however, one from Target and one from Wal-Mart. They are for my kitchen, not a client's. Boy-oh-boy are they giving me a run for the money. Much more intricate than chairs. And I have to use a *gasp* regular wrench. So instead of finishing them last night, I looked up some kitchen-related eye candy.

Interesting design...busy but with the white it works.

{Elle Decor}

Love those light fixtures and the clean look of white!

{Elle Decor}

This is one of my all-time favs. It's old and new all mixed together,

and look at all that storage packed into a small space!

{Marie Claire Maison}

Perfectly French. Ahhh.

{Marie Claire Maison}

Inspiration Leads to Creation.

2011-07-01T00:55:00.000-04:00

My favorite photog, Max Wanger, took some amazing shots awhile back of a very hippie/greek looking bridal fashion editorial session ( http://www.maxwangerblog.com/?paged=2 ) (again, please forgive the fact that for SOME REASON my hyperlinking abilities are still ziltch on this comp).
I love the coastal feel and the sunlight that just streams in through the pics. When I saw them I couldn't get them out of my mind, so I let them serve as inspiration for a couple paintings. I am just learning how to paint people...people are a lot harder than objects and I am not even that great at those! I cannot seem to get the skin tones at just the right shades. I won't even show you the first portrait I attempted...it is a self portrait and I look ten shades darker than I already am. Gotta start somewhere though, or I will never learn!

Who or what inspires you to create? Are you taking the time for it? I feel like I have to ride the wave if I get an idea or I just lose it in the madness that is daily life.

Have a WONDERFUL Fourth of July weekend!

Till next time...

Let There Be Light!!

2011-06-28T01:13:00.001-04:00

Thanks to a helpful friend (and a landlord that loves it when his tenants handle projects on their own) I have new snazzy light fixtures. Next up is paint. Here are some before/afters:

Narsty chandelier with one working light...

Ta-da! Fresh new chandelier with THREE working lights!

Super narsty, super boring, gross, boring bathroom fixture....

Looks WAY better! (Going to need to repair the wall where it has crumbled behind it though).

Both fixtures were purchased at Lowe's for under $150 altogether. Stay tuned as the updates continue.

Objects of the Sea.

2011-06-28T00:56:00.000-04:00

Do you have a place where you go to think about life? A special place that means a lot to you? I was thinking about prayer closets the other day. I knew someone with one a while back. From a decorating standpoint the thought of a prayer closet has always intrigued me..really the thought of turning teeny tiny spaces like closets into reading, play, or work spaces is just plain fun to consider. Uniquely purposed, intimate spaces are cute.

Anyway, I say all that because while I was sitting at my "spot" last week, it hit me that this little, non-descript spot in Jacksonville is my "prayer closet". *I have to note that it has also been humorously referred to as "the crying tree" by my friend and I because I started going to the spot initially to "cry out" my troubles. The fact that it is out in public rather than inside an actual closet or small room doesn't bug me (but it does mean I have some pretty boring closets). I don't just go there to pray (or to cry, either); I go there with friends to have heart-to-hearts and for picnics. Sometimes I yell at God there (in my heart...not out loud!) if the day so calls for it, or just watch the clouds or birds as they pass over. Sometimes I rest there in the middle of a long run. The other day I sat there for ten minutes and made a to-do list in my head and thought of how to execute everything in the best way. I think clearly there. You get my point, it is simply a place where I can really be.

I don't want to speak for my mom but I think the beach is her prayer closet. While I painted the following "objects of the sea", I thought of her and how she brought my sister and I to her spot in St. Augustine over and over again when we were young. Sometimes it is nice to be an adult so you can see things from a more well rounded perspective. When I was going there with her I just thought about how much I loved being in the water!

The blue crab is my favorite ;) More to come!

I hope you have a special place to go where you are completely free to be yourself, and if you don't, maybe you can create one in your home!

xo

A Perfectly Project: 1661 Riverside (Vol. 5)

2011-06-27T07:30:00.000-04:00

Working with my client at 1661 Riverside has been such a pleasure. I've loved our texting sessions regarding everything from whether or not to purchase a certain rug to overwhelming excitement (for both of us) because she found a garden stool for a steal:) My client is fun, classic, girly, fashionable, and a city girl who enjoys her casual side as well. I think her space reflects her well, and I hope you'll agree. There are of course some more little things to be done, but as I have said before on here- good decorating is a process and you should only purchase things you love. Sometimes it is best to be patient and the right solutions to certain blank areas in your home will figure themselves out.

For this project, I helped with:

- paint selections
- light fixture selection and positioning
- shopping for furniture
- positioning of furniture
- coordination of reupholstering
- recovering of chairs
- window treatments (sewing involved)
- accessory placement

Here's a quick house tour!

Living Room:

Dining/ Kitchen:

Guest Bath:

Master Bedroom:

Master Bath:

Guest / Office:

Did I mention she's a Gator?? ;)

That's the tour!! Check out this prior post for before shots of some of the furniture:

http://perfectlytaylord.blogspot.com/2011/04/perfectly-project1661-riverside-vol-iii.html

Weekend Warrior.

2011-06-26T16:56:00.001-04:00

In two weekends I have successfully moved, sold excess furniture, organized what I wanted to keep, acquired two PERFECT tables to replace things that were too bulky, made tablecloths for them, and recovered two seats for my dining room chairs. Wanna see?

I used fabric by the fabulous Amy Butler. It coordinated well and I love the patterns. This is the table in my dining room that a lovely lady at work gave to me. I need to have a piece of glass cut for the top and it will be ready for quick little breakfasts before work and a number of other small, quick meals.

The green walls in this place aren't horrible but I can't wait to get a neutral of some sort up so that my bright furniture and fabrics don't clash as much.

A quick stop at an estate sale down the road got me yet another decorator's table, also covered in Amy Butler. This one came with the glass topper.

Because i had a little bit left over, I decided I should make something fun - and I ended up with a new apron!

I even made it with pleats....

I hope you are having fun doing your own weekend warrior type projects and enjoying the summer!

Stay tuned for more shots of my apartment when my new settee arrives and once things are painted more!

Oooo-wwweee!

2011-06-17T23:58:00.000-04:00

Please, please scoot your boot on over to Design*Sponge to check out what my friend Becky has to say about her recent bathroom reno. I love how she thinks out of the box. You can also see details about the vanity (and get a more specific link to the Design Sponge post because for some reason my link function won't let me paste in a link??) over at her blog here.

Those mix & match mirrors are something to sing about...oooo-weee! Happy Weekend!

Hideaway.

2011-06-17T11:00:00.000-04:00

If you read this post you might be wondering if I ever made a decision regarding new fabric for my settee. I actually had myself set on choice No. 4, "Vintage Blossoms" by Robert Allen for Dwell. The day that I went to Calico Corners, however, I was a) in a hurry and b) wanted to deliver the settee to my re-upholsterer that day. I knew that they carried the Dwell fabric line so I figured I would be in and out in no time. 8 yards please, thankyouverymuch. To my dismay, and as the cause of a near panic, the bolt they had was DAMAGED! You see friends, I had this all planned out. Dwell fabric for the settee and maybe the zig-zag pattern (option No. 1) for my slipper chairs.

After wandering around the store for a hot minute I felt overwhelmed and decided it would be OK if I didn't make a decision and send the settee to the re-upholsterer that day. I would live. I could order the fabric online. Just when I had lost all hope I saw a fabric that I had fallen in love with for a different project I was helping someone else with a month before. I stood there and could immediately see the possibilities...I was...hooked. And just like that my problem was solved. Here is the winner folks: (please keep in mind this was taken on a camera phone & the color looks much more pink...in reality it is very salmon/coral)

I actually don't know who the manufacturer is. It isn't on the Calico Corners website and this is the closest I found online, but it looks like a print, where as my fabric is upholstery weight with the pattern woven in. I am much happier with this choice because I feel like it will last longer than the Dwell fabric and that's important when you have a dog that loves to jump on furniture!

It should be finished any day now - I'll give you an update when it is ready, along with a couple other before/afters I have done recently. Want to hear something else that's exciting? I am switching apartments with my neighbor!! Yet another thing to add to my list of projects to-do, however, the difference in rent was well worth it. And what aspiring designer can't pass up the chance to re-do her living space again? I know I can't.

p.s. I called this post"Hideaway" because it is title of The Weepies song I am listening to right now...random.

Au Revoir! xo

The Smell of Summer.

2011-05-25T16:08:00.000-04:00

{Pacifica Malibu Lemon Blossom}

I purchased the perfume shown above, some aged cheddar cheese, & dog food last night at Whole Foods. I was driving home and decided to spray the perfume once or twice and I thought to myself...darn if that doesn't smell familiar. Well folks, that's because it is the smell of summer. Not just any summer, but all of the summers in between 1989 and 1995. Why those years? Because the lemon scent is so strong it closely resembles that of Sun-In. Now to decide whether to spray it on my neck or all over my hair....Sigh.

Lucite Crib?

2011-05-19T15:00:00.002-04:00

For all my baby-mamma friends out there, check this out. Nurseryworks has created a lucite crib:

{Layla Grace}

Love it or leave it? My initial thoughts:

1) Hefty price tag.

2) Hefty price tag for all the Windex-ing that will need to take place on a daily basis.

3) Is Windex safe for a baby?

4) I love lucite tables and chairs...but this reminds me of those pet store containers that they keep ferrets
in...............

Walnut + Marble + Ikea Cabinets = Lovely.

2011-05-18T10:42:00.000-04:00

Check out this real-life renovation and the renovator's "best and worst decisions" on the project.

What do I think was the worst decision? The pendants. I am not a fan. BUT oh how I love, love, love the walnut & marble counter tops. Also, way to go on the mix & match Ikea cabinetry. The overall look is quite modern, but I think the homeowners will be happy with this look for awhile. The classic, muted color scheme will stand the test of time.

Flavor Paper is Delicious.

2011-05-17T13:19:00.000-04:00

{Iris in "Dusk"}

Flavor Paper, a Brooklyn based wall covering boutique, offers up a lot of ~~eye~~ wall candy.

{Iris in "Gentle Violet" installed in a commercial restroom}

They have some pretty contemporary patterns influenced from the 60s and 70s, plus some large scale photographic prints, but there also patterns available that you or I might love to see donning the walls of our powder rooms and such. The first image, Iris in "Dusk", is my favorite. I would love to see it on an accent wall in a bedroom with this bed in front of it. The linens would be white and this armoire would add turquoise into the mix...I digress...

{Monaco}

I also love this print for it's flair. I look at it and I can feel summertime. This next print is for all you lovers of Mad Men out there:

{Tres Chic}

It was developed using fashion design drawings of Hilda Glasgow. I think it's fun, don't you?!

If you ever needed another reason to visit New York, find Flavor Paper so that you can watch the printing process from the street. They have the printing tables set up in the front just for that purpose! Is it sad that I would rather go to New York to do stuff like that rather than see the Statue of Liberty or Empire State Building. No, really...

Less is More.

2011-05-15T11:26:00.000-04:00

I have the most amazing couch. A friend let me have it for a STEAL when I helped her pick out fabric selections for her new living room furniture. It is huge and can still be purchased new at the store it is from. My sister's couch on the other hand, is falling apart...it is circa 1990. She has a growing family and a bigger dog than mine and well, after lots of shopping around for furniture she just could not find a big sectional in her price range. We considered the fact that I do not watch t.v. often plus my love of re-decorating and have decided that I will acquire my sister's old settee, and enough $$ to purchase fabric and have it recovered. She will take my amazing couch away but as a result I get to make old furniture look new again. I will also have the two slipper chairs I have had FOREVER recovered.

All that to say, I want to have FUN with the fabric I choose for the settee because it has such a cute, classic shape.

Here are my initial choices and an image of a similarly shaped settee. Which do you like the best? Your opinion counts!

1. Zig Zag from BuyFabrics.com
2. Khandar Jewel from BuyFabrics.com

3. Dots by Dwell Studio for Calico Corners

4. Vintage Blossoms by Dwell Studio for Calico Corners

5. Magnificat Avocado Ikat from Calico Corners

Let me know what you are leaning towards. Oh and the settee will be by this rug.

Fashion, Family, Entertainment & Art:...A Summary of Early May.

2011-05-13T14:25:00.001-04:00

Hello again, friends! It has been awhile, but this post should get everyone up to speed on the craziness that is my world. Firstly, I hosted a big dinner for family (people both moved here from out of town and some were visiting) and friends at my apartment...the day before my final project was due in class! AGH! I was gluing fabric to my presentation board and checking on the oven and filling coolers with ice all at once. It was a big success though and while I don't have any pictures of the event, take my word that it was great. The highlight of the evening was a debate over what killed the ant in Honey I Shrunk the Kids...correct answer: the scorpion...wrong answer: a "bad" ant. p.s.: I got an A on the project. whoot.

Next up {and pictured above} I also hosted a succulent-tacular Mother's Day brunch. Biggest props go to my sister for getting through 5 months of being a mommy to the best nephew in the entire world.

Third on the list is this nonsense:

I say nonsense but what I really mean is fabulousness. I hate to admit it but I really did Google the crap out of this event and watched every video I could find online of it. Why? Because it was a great way to procrastinate and also because, let's face it: they are just lovely people.

My mother recently delivered this beauty to my place. It is from a thrift store and she spruced it up with a coat of paint. Perfect for my living room! Thanks mom:)

I got the frame shown above at a thrift store as well and spruced it up with a coat of gray paint. Then I took shells...and...well, you see the result.

My art, including paintings and prints {see below} will be featured at The Green Room in Orange Park after I get it to them this weekend. Go check it out and get your hair done at the same time!

And last, but not least, I have to touch on fashion since I mentioned it in the title.

I found the perfect black summer heels thanks to this post by Kendi Everyday. Love her!

I am working on curtains made out of the fabric to the left of my foot (promise I wasn't stepping on it!) for my client...I'll show you them when they are installed! xoxo peeps.

Artist Mackenzie Thorpe

2011-04-20T14:02:00.000-04:00

{The Innocent}

I am currently in the initial design concept stage of another {new} project. When coming up with a design from scratch, it helps to have a jumping off point, of sorts. Since the client loves Mackenzie Thorpe and has already purchased a number of pieces, I am going to draw my inspiration from the happy-go-lucky spirit that is captured in her work. The spaces I am decorating for her cater to a lot of children so these images are perfect for the atmosphere there.

{Riding in Love}

{Over Love}

{In the Sound of the Siren}

While I was eating at Biscottis, a local restaurant, the other night, I looked up and saw "In the Sound of the Siren" and realized it was also by Mackenzie! I really like it a lot because I have already come up with a number of scenarios to describe what is happening with all those bikes. Where do you think they're headed?

You can also see Mackenzie Thorpe's work on exhibit at R. Roberts Gallery in Avondale.

Holy Calypso, It's Target!

2011-04-19T14:51:00.000-04:00

Who's busting a move to her nearest Target on May 1st? This girl. I have long adored Calypso's home decor items from afar...because they are far too expensive. Now I can get something similar for much less! Way to go again, Target!

$60.....

$2,920.00

Eating Outdoors.

2011-04-15T16:00:00.000-04:00

This picture has had my mind swirling. Darby at Fly Through Our Window took it at a recent party she went to. I love the vintage lace, the mix-matched chairs, the fact that all of this is set up outdoors without a tent (such courage!), and the idea of a meal outdoors, whether it be fancy-dancy or casual fun. It's the perfect weather outside for either, so get out there and make it happen this weekend!

xo

Design School.

2011-04-13T09:52:00.000-04:00

I adore the blog 6th Street Design School by Kristen Karsen. She was recently featured on Apartment Therapy with an article about how to pull together a kid-friendly yet design conscious family room. Check it and her blog out. She recently updated her mother's guest room with a budget of $500 and I loved the way she put a sunburst mirror over a fabric-covered memo board.

In other news: does this hounds tooth fabric "speak" to you? I was in class last night and found it in a Lee Jofa sample book. I fell in love. It is much prettier in person. I vigorously cut it out (we're allowed to do that) and took it home. I can't use it for the project I am working on in that class but I can't wait for the right time to use it either in real life or for school.

Antique Store Rejects.

2011-04-10T22:13:00.000-04:00

Have you ever gone to an antique store? They are not filled to the brim with actual antiques most of the time. And by actual, I mean typical. Most of the time there are some pretty unique things to see. And the most unique items will either sit there in their little booths for ages while people let them collect dust or they will eventually be scooped up by the person who has waited his/her whole life to find such an oddity. Here are some items that I left behind this weekend:

Stone circle of little people surrounding a candle and painted log lamp with hand sewn picture shade.....

"Ragtime" art made out of a mattress spring and shabby-chic fabric scraps....

Matching set of blue and white creepy grandma & grandpa plates....

And last, but not least, a lamp so corny - it's growing ears.

A Perfectly Project: 1661 Riverside (vol. 4)

2011-04-10T21:59:00.001-04:00

One more detail about our fabric finds...this toile fabric remnant was on sale for close to nothing. It made perfect sense that it should go on this side chair with arm rests (which was doning some A-typical traditional look fabric from the mid-90s). This was the only chair that didn't make sense compared to the rest of the dining chairs we found so far, so it has been relocated to the living area.

You like? We do. We think it is snazzy.

A Perfectly Project:1661 Riverside (vol. 3)

2011-04-10T21:50:00.002-04:00

My client and I had a grand old time working on fabric choices and furniture purchasing this weekend. Here are some shots I took before we left for our shopping excursion. I wanted to have her artwork, rug, and existing furniture in mind so that we could make confident decisions while we were out.

She has some really colorful, expressive art for her living and dining areas, so I knew we could have some fun recovering the chairs she found at local antique shops. The one on the left was only $20! The one on the right will be professionally recovered...so I will show you the before and after for that later.

These are the fabric choices for the kitchen/dining areas. I love them! I am about to begin work on curtains for her back french doors...can't wait to see them up!

Some of our amazing finds. We both came out under budget for the things we had in mind. I needed a solution for my jam-packed kitchen and we spotted that cute little cabinet! I'm not finished styling it yet, but it works for now.

Vintage Minus the Rust.

2011-04-08T14:27:00.000-04:00

{Lowe's}

Shiny. Green. Glider.

Please excuse me while I feverishly hunt for a coupon to Lowe's.

Small Space Meets Big Suzani.

2011-04-06T16:01:00.000-04:00

{Evan's LA Loft}

The SMALL/COOL 2011 contest is underway and some of the entries are amazingly perfect (to me). My vote goes to this guy, his huge a$$ Suzani, and his super cute dog that graces most of the pictures of his place.

J'adore.

2011-04-06T14:48:00.000-04:00

{Vintage bird via DS}

Design Sponge's latest "Living In" post this week was inspired by the book/movie: The Secret Garden. One of my absolute childhood favorites. Perhaps my love of flowers, vines, and garden stools began as I turned the pages of the tale of Mary Lennox....

{Overstock}

To Decorate or to Undecorate? That is the Question.

2011-04-04T13:23:00.001-04:00

{The Selby}

Sup, ya'll? I should say, "Hola!" because I just returned from Central America. It was beautiful there, but I really mean it when I say I am happy to be home...discussing homes.

Getting back to the grind with work and school; I caught up on some Apartment Therapy this morning and saw that they were mentioned in this NY Times article. The article discusses the post-recession trend to "undecorate." I can attest that this is definitely the present movement. You might be experiencing this in your home if say, your dining room chairs are mis-matched, an Ikea rug sits under an antique hand-me-down from your parents, or you (gasp) have purchased mix & match bedding items at a discount. I have said before that I feel comfortable in eclectic spaces and "undecorated" spaces are just that. To me, they typically end up showing the true personality of the inhabitants far more than design that follows all the rules to a "T". I embrace this new trend with open arms, a creative spirit, and my own teeny-tiny budget.

A Perfectly Project : 1661 Riverside.

2011-03-17T12:57:00.001-04:00

Update time! My client has officially moved into her space! Paint and light fixtures were finished a week ago and now we are on to furniture placement. Here are some shots of the fresh new palette she gets to live with!

My client talked a lot about how "soothing" she wanted her wall colors to be. I can relate. When I get home, I need it to be a safe haven away from the bustle of everyday life. So for the majority of her space, we went with a pale blue-gray.

You can also see the new light fixtures in the picture above, and the one below. We came in way under budget for all three and I love the look of them.

In the office/guest room, she didn't like the sample we put up and improvised by choosing the most beautiful blue.

It reminds me of "map blue"...you know, the color of water on maps?

Lastly, I had some trouble photographing her bedroom walls. I hope you can get a good sense of this soft pink. I can't wait to have fun with the textiles in this room, because you may not know it, but there is a lot you can do with pink walls!

There is one more small bathroom to be painted downstairs, so I will show you that soon. More projects up my sleeve...I can't wait to share them.

*A special note: someone asked me why I would post a client's address on the web...1661 Riverside is not her address. It is the name of the development.

Till next time, xo

C Tables

2011-03-17T12:33:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! I guest blogged about C Tables over at World According to Shia. Don't know what a C Table is? Then check out my post (and the rest of her blog) today!

Design = Hospitality.

2011-03-06T17:49:00.000-05:00

{Small Dot Fabric by Eames Gallery}

Had to watch this video for class. It is about Charles and Ray Eames. I love the outlook this couple had. They obviously influenced their own family and are still influencing generations of people in the design world and beyond. Check it out.

J'adore.

2011-03-03T10:26:00.000-05:00

{House Beautiful via Apartment Therapy}

I <3 the garden stool, the paint color, the window treatment, the mirror,

and the brown and white color scheme. I dislike that narsty rug.

Little Tiny Baby Lambs.

2011-03-02T12:54:00.000-05:00

Can be seen on Fly Through Our Window.

A Perfectly Project: 1661 Riverside

2011-02-24T18:20:00.000-05:00

{Entry}

I recently picked up a couple decorating projects on the side. I already told you about the kitchen renovation. This project is a bit larger and includes an entire town home located in a historic district near downtown Jacksonville. What I love about it is that it is new construction in an old neighborhood. All the character without the constant array of things to fix. The location is beautiful and once the client and I are finished bringing life to this space, it will be the perfect retreat for her.

{Main Area - Kitchen in rear}

We are finalizing paint colors this weekend and have already purchased three different light fixtures for the main area shown above.

{Bath}

The bathrooms (there are two and a half) are pretty simple but to begin with we are just going to paint them and pick out accessories for them.

{Office - Still under construction}

The client brought up the possibility of using the Master Bedroom as an Office/Guest Room instead. Since both rooms are a good size, I agreed with her and we are moving forward with that in mind. She has the ability to work from home so there will be a lot of emphasis placed on this room. There are three windows so it already has a lot of light and a great view. I want her to be excited to work in this space.

{Master Bedroom}

Here's the room that will instead be used as a Master Bedroom.

Once we are further along on this I will give you an update!

She Sells Seashells By the Seashore.

2011-02-10T23:01:00.000-05:00

New work. Word.

Be Kind to Each Other.

2011-02-10T01:47:00.000-05:00

Intermission from chair posts...let's take a look at Birthday Things* for the CUTEST co-ed nursery ever. If you click on the link you will then understand the title to this post.

xo

The Art of Seating: 1800's

2011-02-10T01:21:00.001-05:00

Do you have your comfy chair all readt to sit in while you read this post about chairs? I hope you do. Today I will cover the 1800's and next I will show you the 1900's through the present.

This quote greeted me as I entered the exhibit:

{tree chair by local artists-located outside exhibit}

"Few objects tell the history of modern design as eloquently as the chair. Aesthetic trends, the emergence of new technologies, ergonomics, social and cultural developments are all reflected in the evolution of chair design."

- Museum of Contemporary Art- Jacksonville, FL

This Texas Loghorn chair was my favorite of the 1800's era and proably my favorite of the entire collection as well. It was so different and stood out to me as being well ahead of its time. Wenzel Freidrich, the designer, should be applauded for his resourcefullness and out-of-the-box thinking.

The famous Victorian slipper chair is shown below. The decorative carvings are indicative of the attention to detail that was so typical in all areas of life then.

Next, the House of Representatives Chamber Arm Chair:

Notice how the carvings on the legs look like petals of a flower?...these are called "Petalate legs." The man who designed this chair is also considered the father of Architecture (as a profession) in America. His name is Thomas U. Walter.

This is an Egyptian influence side chair. This sucker was the first acquisition that started the entire privately owned collection of chairs that were featured in this exhibit.

Gothic influence side chair.

"Fancy" paint detail was used to make an ordinary chair similar to more expensive chairs so that people of varied social standing could obtain the same style for less. i.e., this chair would have been sold at Target.

Many different natural materials were used for chairs throughout the 1800's, including wood, rattan, bentwood, shell inlays, and leather. That chair on the bottom left is called an Appalachain chair. It definitely would look right at home on a porch overlooking the mountains!

Detail of the Egyptian side chair.

The 1800's certainly set the standard for chair design. All I could think while I was looking at all of the chairs in this era was the immense amount of time, sweat, and effort that was put into making quaility furniture back then. In my next post, I will briefly touch on the social changes that brought a halt to a lot of the craftsmanship of this era.

J'adore.

2011-02-08T11:37:00.000-05:00

{Anthro}

This outfit speaks to me of comfort and understated femininity. Love it.

The colors, textures, and fabrics used would translate into room decor in a good way too.

Day at the Museum.

2011-02-02T10:00:00.001-05:00

Grab a seat or pull up a chair because I will soon be posting a detailed review of the Art of Seating exhibit I recently went to which covered 200 years of seating. The post will be lengthy, so I recommend a cozy recliner to keep you comfy while you read. No - they did not include a recliner in the exhibit. Sadface.