The Last Official Weekend of Summer!

Wow, time really doesn't wait for anyone!  Can you believe we're already on the front porch of Fall!  Do you have a special way of bringing the season to a close?  Around my house we usually do some type of home improvement project, but not this year.  We are going to spend the weekend doing a lot of nothing!  The first bit of nothing on the list is to pay a visit to Serenbe, a lovely little community in Chattahoochee Hills, that is hosting several events over the holiday weekend.  It is also the site of this years HGTV Green Home Giveaway, that just happened a couple of weeks ago!  They are also hosting the Bosch Net Zero Home Tour this weekend that should be an inspiration to see.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The food at these three restaurants is soooo good and well worth the visit!  The Farmhouse is located inside the Inn at Serenbe.  The Blue Eyed Daisy is a special little place that serves incredible sandwiches and pasteries!  The Hil, I've only eaten at the Hil once, and it has been while; but what an experience that was!  What I do remembe,r is that most, if not all of the produce came from the serenbe farm and the menu is hand selected by chef/owner Hilary White.  If considering an evening out, visit the website for restaurant times for the Farmhouse and the Hil.  The Blue Eyed Daisy has more accommodating hours, especially on weekends.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The lovely images above are from the model home of the 2010 development the "Nest Cottages".  This model home was built with energy efficiency in mind.  It is a truly fascinating story!  To read more about it click here.  What I love about this community is just that, a wonderful community that is focused on the quality of life of not just the homeowners, but the business owners (whom I think probably reside there as well), and all who visit.  It's very lifestyle specific.  If you appreciate nature, sustainable design, footworn paths, fresh vegetation from the local farm, and everyone you pass saying hello; then this is a place you need to experience, if only for a day!  I encourage you to visit their website and read their blog to learn more about this amazing place that was born from the vision of Marie and Steve Nygren.  I have had the pleasure of meeting them both, once at ADAC and again on the property in summer of 2008.  They are so down to earth and incredibly warm and welcoming!  It you live in the metropolitan Atlanta area and are looking for something to do this weekend, make the trip to Chattahoochee Hills and enjoy a day you've probably not had in a long while!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via The Serenbe Community



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Elements of Loveliness



Hello my Friends!  I hope you guys have had a incredible week and are looking forward to a fantastic weekend!  I'm in a hmm, not melancholy, but maybe a more thoughtful or placid mood.  Yes, placid, that's it!  And so these are the images that spoke more to me than any others I contemplated for this posting!

 

 The silk upholstered French sofa is very feminine. The soft curves of the frame and it's delicate stance is beautiful; very lady-like.  The rhythm of the patterns and colors from the damask wall covering, to the lace fabric on the drum ottoman flows so nicely; like poetry or a sweet melody.  A dose of modern flair with the lamp and abstract painting is just the crescendo the space needed.   

 

 

The most striking element in the room is the cerulean blue velvet sofa with it's shades of green pillows and one in soft powder blue.  The stool upholstered in green with gold gilt legs is stunning.  My eye moves to the walls and the details that it holds.  I'm curiously attracted to the profile of the arm chairs.  I would find these chairs comfortable to sit in with my feet placed firmly on the floor, but someone of average height would be more comfortable curled up enjoying all the room has to offer.

 

 

Where is my daughter's box of crayons when I need them?  What a lovely shade of pink this is!  The clean lines and subtle tufting takes away some of the girly femininity of the sofa, making it not so offensive to those of the masculine persuasion.  It also helps to have sleek framed leather chairs flanking such a sofa.  I wish I could get a better view of the floor!  From what I can see, it is gorgeous!  All of this against the backdrop of the gray classical architecture of the room!  Wow!

 

 

You know, it's funny just contemplating what I am going to call this piece of funiture.  It is called a settee, a sofette, and a love seat!  I guess it is whatever strikes your fancy!  I'm sure there is some historical tidbit that explains the difference; as there is a difference between a couch and a sofa!  I'm finding that gray velvet upholstery looks amazing paired with every color imagineable!  I would love to have a piece like this in my living room or bedroom.  Outfitted in a different fabric, it would look simply handsome in a gentleman's office or library.  Can you see that?  I love the contrast of the light wash of the wood plank flooring juxtaposed with the charcoal walls!  Isn't it striking?  It's like light radiating up only to be absorbed the higher it reaches...

 

 

I'm not crazy about the patchwork upholstery on this sofa, but I do like it in this space!  It works!  The windows and draperies are what I'm excited about!  I can't get enough of natural lighting and the fabric that is chosen to frame the source.  Did you notice the crystal chandelier?  How do you feel about shag rugs?  I love them!  I used a really plush one in a bedroom project that feels so good under foot!  This really is a very nice and charming vintage space that has elements of loveliness!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

* Imags via Decor Pad and Pinterest



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With A Man In Mind

I know!  I know!  It is the end of the month and I am just now publishing my inspirations for the guys!  This month just got away with me with everything that has been going on.  If you're not already following me on Pinterest, what are you waiting for?  You'll get day to day insight on what is inspiring me on 50 different boards with more to be added soon!  As I'm on various websites throughout the day sourcing and researching, I'm always coming across images that inspire me for one reason or another, that I pin to my Pinterest boards.  If you don't want to wait for my monthly posting for "With A Man In Mind", click here and follow my All About Men Pinterest board!  I'd love to have you!  So, without further ado...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hmm, did you have any favorites?  I love the clothes, but I care more about the details...the accessories, the things that make the biggest impact and the most lasting impression!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*All images via my Pinterest board "All About Men".



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Fall 2012, Fashion + One More Tidbit!

Today is a very busy day!  I've got a couple of projects that I have to work on that I've been slow to get going!  Oh, I'm pumped up and ready to go!  It's just that today is very rainy outside as a result of the tropical storm activity that the coast is experiencing.  For those of you who didn't know, yes Georgia sees a lot of rain during hurricane season!  Back to what I was saying...this is my favorite kind of day to just sit, think, and imagine.  I don't see this as wasted time at all!  As a creative person, I think times like these are essential to staying creative and true to whatever that creative sensibility is.  With that said, I am looking forward to Fall and all that it brings!  It is my favorite season!  I am crazy about the colors of Fall, the fashions of Fall, the weather of Fall, everything!  Here are a few looks that are being pinned from my Fashion Pinterest board like wildfire!

 

Gucci Fall 2012

 

Bottega Veneta Fall 2012

 

Dolce and Gabanna Fall 2012

 

So, yesterday I'm browsing through the latest issue of Veranda (October), magazine, and I flip to the promotion page "Veranda at 25".  Who do I see looking right at me?  Me!  There was a photograph of myself along with Charlotte Moss and three other design professionals!  It took me by surprise, as I was totally not expecting it!  We were all at a reception following "The Art of Gracious Living" panel discussion held at the Fabricut showroom, at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center.  Fabricut was debuting Charlotte Moss's new fabric collection, and it was there that she was so kind to pose for a picture with me.  I had forgotten all about that day until I saw the picture and was reminded of the wonderful time I had during the Design Defined event hosted by ADAC. 

 

Image via Veranda, October 2012 via Connie Dixon

Top middle left to right:  Me! Alena Quaye (A&A Design Interiors,LLC); Charlotte Moss; Terrell Dinkins (Pink Door Decor); and Connie Dixon (ARTCESSORIE)



Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

* All images via Pinterest



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Little Luxuries

While browsing the September, 2012 catalog of Pottery Barn, I came across the section about bedding so aptly titled "Classic Touches".  The Plaza Bedding and the Grand Bedding are the two that I was most drawn to.  While the bedding is absolutely classic in style, I always think of bedding as my little luxury.  It's the one thing that touches my skin, that should relax and comfort me; and totally make for a luxurious experience.  I can't think of a better way to pamper myself than with incredible bedding.  It is always the very best that I can afford and I take great pains in caring for it!  Well, not really "pains", but as with anything that I love, I am very mindful of how I care for it.

The Plaza Bedding shown in Gray Mist

 

I know I've said this before, but I love my bed! It is so nicely dressed! Whenever I walk into my room, I silently feel good just looking at it! I have a queen-sized bed. I don't care much for king-sized beds. We had one in our first home and I could not wait to get rid of it! It's the intimacy of the queen that makes me feel, hmm...protected, cocooned? I'm not sure, but I prefer it so much more. Furthermore I just think kings are too big and the bedding prices jump a pretty sizeable amount from a queen to a king. If you don't have a really sizeable space that allows for movement, you shouldn't cram a king-sized bed in there anyway! It just doesn't look good! My opinion! We're all entitled! Anyhoo...

 

 

On my bed I always have two euro shams, two standard shams, two bed pillows, one accent pillow, a coverlet, and a duvet, obviously along with the sheets.  I always make my bed as soon as I get out of it (thanks Mom)!  I mean, literally, I place my feet on the floor, turn around, and proceed to making my bed!  My day will be shot if I don't make my bed!  My kids don't seem to be bothered by this, though!  Everyone that comes into my room, never notices that I don't have a proper bed (headboard).  I have yet to buy one because I can't make up my mind and I've yet to find one in my price range.  This is where the euro shams are wonderful in framing the bed, giving the illusion of a headboard!

 

Grand Bedding

 

The Essential Bedskirt

 

Right now I'm not in a florally, patterned space as it relates to my bedding.  I love florals and I love pattern, but I'm not feeling it in my bedroom.  I find it kind of funny because I'm in such a girly space in my life.  That's something for me to analyze later!  One thing that I am all about is monogramming!  Especially on bedding!!!  Adding a monogram is such a classic and personal touch!  I like the way my initials look!  Come to think of it, it's another luxury and that's why I enjoy the monogrammed pieces that I do own.  Yes, it makes me feel good!

 

 

I don't just like the way that my bed looks, I love the way that it feels, of course!  It's all about the feeling for me, as I'm sure you've gathered reading this posting!  It starts with the right basics.  When shopping for a mattress you try it out by lying on it and tossing and turning, so why shouldn't you do the same with bedding essentials?  Invest in a great (1) mattress pad (2) pillow inserts (3) and comforter.  You can take it a step further and purchase a feather bed.  I only use mine in winter because I get warm pretty quickly and those little feathers hold that heat; and then I am not comfortable!  Speaking of heat, if you are pretty warm natured, I suggest doing a light weight comforter.  It can get pretty toasty under there!  Also, if you have allergy sensitivities, you want to look for other alternative to down.  There is a lot to choose from when considering synthetics!  Find the right pillows, the ones that you sleep on.  I thought I was more of a soft girl, but I came to realize that no Ma'am, I need a firm pillow.  As far as sham inserts go, you don't have to be as selective, however I will say that I like the fluff of down filled inserts; but there are synthetic fills that are great as well.

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Pottery Barn September, 2012 catalog

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Sunday Special

There's something about a beautiful Sunday... I can't really place my finger on it, but it has a feel about it like no other day (for me).  There are scattered, puffy, white clouds against an icy blue sky that are moving by at a snails pace; which lets you know the wind isn't high.  Just being outside and gazing up, and enjoying the quietness of it all is at this point for me, indescribable.  Do you have those moments where you are able to quiet your mind, enjoy the silence, and be at ease with who you are and your place in the world?  I try to go to this magical place whenever I can.  It can be the dreariest of days, just listening to rain.  Have you ever really listened to the rain?  I think of it as God's lullaby, telling me to be still and take in all that He is.  Anyhoo, if you don't think you have time for moments like these (Daddy, hint hint), then you really don't know what you're missing...

 

 

The first thing that attracted me to this space was the window.  I thought to myself, how odd it was and I could totally imagine a homeowner not knowing where to begin when considering a window treatment! 

 

 

I would love to think that I would have thought of this; and I'm fairly certain after a little bit of time and sketches I would have!  The entire space is just so comfortable.  The light finishes of the floor, walls, furniture, and upholstery all come together to create such an elegant environment that doesn't take itself too seriously.

 

 

I think this space has feminine touches, but allows for a masculine sensibility through the rustic quality of the floor and the minimum linearity of the stairs.  I want this mirror!  The frame is gorgeous and is positioned just right, on a wall that gives the illusion of more depth and spaciousness.  It is so important for a mirror to reflect something lovely to look at!  The reflection in this mirror makes for a wonderful picture!

 

 

Is it just me, or can you too see how the ceiling beams adds so much character, balance, and interest?  The beams seem to have a rhythmic flow with the floor planks running in the same direction.  The lighter finish of the floor seems to make the room float a bit; while the darker ceiling grounds you and gives a sense of intimacy with an open and airy feel.  Hopefully that didn't just make sense to only me!

 

 

Allow me to give a little insight behind the making of this posting!  I follow a blog Inspired Design, written and edited by an amazing mother of two named Debbie!  I love reading her stories and getting her perspective on everything that inspires her.  Her blog is where I got the first image of that lovely room.  After uploading that image on Google image search, it revealed other places the image had been shown; but I chose to click on the link that belonged to Christina Colli, an artist, writer, and interior designer living in the UK.  She had a wonderful posting about a Lithuanian online magazine that I'd never heard of called Llamas Valley.  It was in this posting that Christina featured some of the images from the summer 2012 issue of the magazine.  Of course, I had to pop over there and take a look around; and let me tell you, it was filled with some of the most interesting and beautiful images!  I am now a subscriber to Christina's blog as well as Llamas Valley magazine!  All three that I've mentioned in this posting are definitely worth you visiting and subscribing to!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Image credits:  [1] [2] [3]



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Color Inspiration: Petal Tones

Happy Friday!  Do you have big plans for the weekend?  I'm going to do a little cleaning, a little relaxing, and meet up with a couple of design friends for a little catching up!  That will take me through to Monday morning, for sure!

 

I subscribe to a blog site named Design Seeds, and receive daily emails of color palette inspirations that I file away for projects.  I love it because there are always color combinations that I've not thought about that are inspired by literally any and everything!  If you haven't visited this site, you should!  They make coming up with a color palette the easiest part of the design process.  The color inspiration today is Petal Tones and it is so soft and lovely.

 

Design Seeds

 

 

Suzanne Kasler via Pinterest

 

This room, designed by Suzanne Kasler, makes me want to curl up on the softly upholstered velvet sofa and read a great book or take a lingering nap!  The entire room is incredible.  Any room that gets great natural light should be amazing and when they are framed with draperies as gorgeous as these, what else could be better!  I mean truly, lighting is the most important element!  Everything else should be the icing on the cake! 

 

 

via Tumblr

 

 

Instagram via Pinterest

 

 

Windsor Smith via House Beautiful

 

Windsor Smith created a delicate jewel box look using the same fabric for the bed covering, wall, and canopy.  What an enveloping feel!  The gold starburst mirror has a brooch appeal, pinned nicely.  I love the silhouette of the chaise at the end of the bed; wrapped beautifully in a plush salmon velvet.  It reminds me of one of my jewelry box interiors; and how it is lined in the same wonderful fabric.  It's so feminine, and I always feel so special each time I open it to take pieces out and replace them at the end of the day.  It's those little details that go a very long way in creating an experience.

 

 

via Pinterest

 

 

via Kate Spade

 

 

via Pinterest

 

The chandelier is totally the show stopper in this butler's pantry!  Notice how the light reflects off the glass cabinet doors and stainless steel backsplash; it makes the space sparkle inspite of the dark cabinetry!

 

 

via Pinterest

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda



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A Place of Significance

Every room should have one!  A place of significance.  A space where you carve out a little place for elements that are a cause for pause, if you will.  A composition of things that are collected and selected for the observer to take a moment to appreciate, wonder, or even snicker a bit!  Yeah, that's it!  A place to have a "moment".

 

How simple and utterly striking is this!  Just using the small space in between a pair of windows and placing sketches in circular frames the same color as the lighting fixture, and placing a pretty tufted chair creates a moment that you may not necessarily use for sitting, as much as a holding place for later use.  I really like how the frames add a bit of whimsy and softens the linear lines of the window.

 

 

Although this is not conventional, I love the randomness about it!  It's taking items that have been collected, that maybe don't have a home but can be used to create a lovely vignette for elements that are way to pretty to place in a closet or drawer.

 

 

There was a time when I would have thought this was way too busy.  Obviously not anymore!  The most striking feature of this vignette, in my opinion, is the mirror.  Sure, the wallpaper is pretty and the details of the cabinet are beautful; it's the black finish of the mirror that captures my attention the most.  That is what black does and this is why when using it in your interiors it needs to be done so with a discerning eye.

 

 

Okay truly, would you not pause for a moment upon seeing this?  I love it!  What makes it work so well is that all of the mirrors have a consistent finish that makes the chocolate brown wall not appear dark.  Instead of absorbing all of the light, it is bounced around the room by the mirrors themselves, as well as their finish.  How about that zebra upholstered chair!

 

 

The barrel vaulted ceiling here with thin wood planks is incredible; but the addition of the details of the lighting fixtures that casts such an illuminating design on the ceiling is eye catching.  Both vignettes on the angled wall and the wall at the end of the hallway are composed of classical elements that are beautiful.  I love the oversized corbels that are the supports for the console top.  Everything in this entry and hallway are right in keeping with the theme and period of all the elements combined.  It's actually quite lovely, indeed.

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images my Elements Pinterest board

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