Closet Fantasies

When I started thinking about what I was going to pack for my trip, I immediately thought I needed to go shopping.  No, I wasn't using it as an excuse to shop!  I honestly thought I didn't have anything to wear.  I know those of you who are reading this, and actually know me are like "yeah right"!  Well, after shopping my closet, I found things in there that I've not laid eyes on for too long!  Which got me to thinking about closet design and organization.

 

 

 

My closet is too small for my things and way too small for mine and Pete's! So as you can imagine, it's pretty cramped in there. However, I will say since I am a bit of an organization stickler, everything has it's place in the cramped space. It is organized by style, color, and length. My shoes and boots line the walls at the bottom, along the floor in their original boxes. I have long necklaces hanging on one of the walls, as well as in jewelry boxes, in lovely little bowls, and on beautiful trays. Scarves are folded in the boxes they came in, belts are coiled in a hat box, and my handbags are in my linen closet on the bottom two shelves. Never place them on the top shelf because over time the heat will take it's toll. Anyhoo, I give you this breakdown so that you can kind of get an idea of how it's so easy for me to overlook and forget the many fantastic pieces I own. Such a shame!

 

 

My ideal closet would have all things displayed in a way that would make it very easy for me to see, grab, contemplate, try on, and take a peek in the mirror from all angles; even as I walk to and fro checking out all sides. Nothing would be missed! Obviously, I would have to have a place to sit and rest in between try-ons! This maybe a nice Bergere chair beautifully upholstered in an amazing Schumacher fabric or a lovely tufted settee in a luxe velvet. I would also want great lighting. Yes, a fabulous chandelier or pendant is preferable, but I need lighting that makes me look amazing! Natural lighting is always best, but not necessarily so for clothing! I wouldn't skimp on flooring either. I just used a fantastic porcelain tile in my show house space, that I would totally consider using with a plush rug underfoot to cuddle my toes.  I've always loved the idea of a beautiful dressing table with a chair to sit and put on my make up and other accessories.  There would be a wonderfully tasteful ornate mirror that would anchor the space and be the crown jewel of my most amazing dressing room.

 

 

 

The best closet design is one that allows for it's contents to be seen, protected, and organized all in one incredible space.  Ahhh...  Oh well it's time for me to get the kids off to school!  One day my closet fantasy will be a delightful reality!  Until then...

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images



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With a Man in Mind

I was having a conversation the other day with a friend of mine where we were discussing trends in interior design that had staying power.  The one that we both agreed that is here to stay is the impact that men have had on their living spaces.  Obviously, women's voices will always be heard in design just because that's still considered more of what we do, but with the family dynamic undergoing some changes with stay at home dad's and/or men working from home; their needs and desires must be addressed.  Not to mention with more and more men wanting nicer, more stylish and sophisticated diggs, they are taking more of an active and deliberate role in creating environments that speak to who they are and their lifestyles. 

 

 

Men tend to think more about function first and then aesthetics.  That's not to say they put a small amount of value on nice looking things, it's just that it needs to suit the purpose first and then be great looking.  Oh my gosh, let's not forget about convenience and their interests.  These are the jumping off points for their design endeavors.  Once these are satisfied, they can then move on to the task of making it amazing.

 

 

Linen, denim, a pocket square, and a nice watch!  I would say this is a great way to do casual.

 

Leather totes are a very stylish and handsome way for men to carry their work essentials.  This tote would look good whether he's wearing jeans or a suit.

 

 

Bed and bedding... Now obviously not everyone is okay with a mattress on the floor; not even the average guy.  However as shown above, as long as the space is clean, organized, and clutter free it can work.  This is totally a bachelors bedroom!  The wall color is subtle with a couple of great framed images, and the on trend brass details in the art lights and light fixture, well I mean, it's fabulous.  The draperies hung simply from discreet hardware, along with the no nonsense bedding...hmmm, just smart.  This room would not offend me at all.  I would date this man.  Well, I would have dated him!

 

 

Okay, so I had to throw Lenny in for a little eye candy!  Wow, just beautiful.  I remember when I was a little girl, my dad's facial hair would tickle my face and I didn't really like it all that much.  My how things have changed!  I love a nicely groomed beard.  Yes, I really do (nodding approvingly as I smile from ear to ear). 

 

What can I say about this Bugatti Veyron?  Sexy?  Absolutely.

 

Accessories are the details that speak volumns and yet they are most often the last to be given any thought at all.  I do think this is changing with the guys.  I don't know, there seems to be an evolution of sorts happening.  I am so glad about this, too.

 

 

Really!  The high ceiling along makes this bathroom incredible!  Come on!  The contrast of the wood planks and the beams is striking!  The dual vanity, reminiscent of cross-legged trays that are used in living areas to hold anything from bar essentials to collections of pictures and treasures is totally handsome in the rich walnut finish.  I'm loving the louvered window treatments.  It is a very clean and clever way of letting light in and also having privacy when needed.  The wall tiles make a huge statement in large part because of their size and in part because of their finish.  Interesting also is what appears to be wood slats in the walk-in shower.  Do you see this?  Only what is convenient, necessary, and functional in a very sophisticated design.

 

 

Classic.  Both the wardrobe and the club chair.

 

Obvioulsy, women aren't the only ones that need organization in their closets.  There is a place for everything here; even a place to sit, which by the way is a very smart chair with a hide underfoot to add a little warmth and texture. 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via my All About Men Pinterest board



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Polished, Refined, And Well Edited

Nina Garcia's Upper Eastside Manhattan apartment is beautiful.  It is simple elegance.  What I most like about her lovely home is the art.  Not to discount, dismiss, or disregard the furnishings and accessories; because let's face it, her apartment is pretty fabulous, right?

 The nude above the fireplace is by Lucian Freud, and though I think it is striking, it is the frame and the selected matting that enhances the sketch beautifully.  This fireplace is a wonderful marriage of modern and classic design. 
 

 

Above the sofa is an incredible gouache-and-ink abstract by Robert Albert Martin. What I enjoy most about abstract art is that the observer can and will see what their mind conceives.  It is emotional; running the gamut from excitement, energy, and happiness to melancholy, sorrow, and oppression.  Art is a very powerful form of expression not just for the artist who creates it, but for the individual who chooses to hang it on their walls to live with day in and day out.

 

 

How impactful it is to hang one phenomenal piece that is able to hold it's own, and be all that is needed for the space; no supporting elements, no bells, no whistles, just the ability to stand alone and be enough.  James Nares is the artist that created the colorful painting that hangs in the dining room.

 

 

The thin classic framed prints by Cindi Johnson are all that's needed to anchor the wall on which the bed sits.  This is such a tranquil and serene bedroom with colors in blue, shades of gray, and camel.  The prints further enhance the look and feel of the bedroom by giving the eye something wonderfully interesting to look at; but also the mind something truly inspiring to ponder.

 

 

Art in the closet...an amazing detail that should not be overlooked!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*All images are via Architectural Digest



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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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Delights In White

I love the classic, clean, crisp purity of white!  Whether it is in interiors, fashion, art, or accessories, it is the one color along with red and black that packs a serious wallop!  My favorite blouse is white!  My favorite dishes~ white!  My bedding~duvet, shams, sheets/pillowcases; white, white, white/white!  Here's the thing about white, as much as I love it, I will only use it as a wall finish in a room if the elements of that space are truly wonderful!  Oh, but how do I love it on trim and molding!  White is great for highlighting, but horrible at disguising!  If you're confident that you have a keen eye for detail and a knack for layering textures, patterns, and finishes~by all means, go for it!  Not so sure you can do an all white interior, take some cues the images below and introduce bits here and bits there!  Have fun with it and remember there is nothing you can do that can't be undone!

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

*Images

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My Three Must Haves For Home Happiness!

I must have a kitchen I want to cook in, entertain in, and just plain old feel good in!  I want it to be functional, beautiful, and comfortable with elements of luxury!  I must have a bathroom that encourages relaxation, that inspires beauty, and just plain old feel good in!  I need it to be a place where all necessities are handy, well organized, and nicely displayed.  I need it to have soft, thirsty towels, a rug that makes the soles of my feet sing, and a lovely place to sit for moments of pampering and primping!  Oh, my closet...I am such an organization nut, so I would be in a place of utter bliss to have every element placed where I can see it, and organized in a way that makes even the most posh boutiques envious.  Yes my friends, these are definitely my three musts for home happiness!  There are things I would like to have in my dream home, but these are tops!  What are some things that you must have in order to be more than beyond in your home? 

 

 

 

Make it a perfect day!

Rhonda

*images via My Pinterest Boards

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Red Doors Mean Welcome, Black Doors Mean...

I have been noticing for a little while now, the use of the color black for front and interior doors.  Now we all know that the color black, in fashion, represents power and authority.  It is also very sophisticated, classic, elegant, and timeless; which is exactly the look and feel conveyed in the following images.  I did a little bit of research to see if there was any information regarding what a black front door or black doors of any kind meant.  The only thing I came across had to do with Feng Shui, and it didn't really speak about using black as a color for your front door, unless it was in your career area.  I'm not all that well versed in Feng Shui, but if you'd like to read more about this subject click here.  Do you have an opinion about the use of black on front doors or interior doors?  I'd love to hear from you!

So striking this front door is with the green planters and trees, made even more dramatic in front of an all white facade!

I love the glossy black finish with the brass hardware on this paneled door!

Beautiful mouldings definitely raises the bar here and makes for a very elegant entry!

The English door knob and mail slot are a gorgeous addition to this door!

What a gorgeous, light-filled entry that showcases such a wonderful inlay flanked by beautiful planters brimming over with lovely, big leaf botanicals!  Simplicity making a big statement!

Double entry doors are always very classic and elegant!

What lovely trim we have surrounding this pair!  I think the black really enhances this front door as the architectural feature of the entry!

Wow!  These pocket doors are pretty basic, but with a coat or two of black paint and the white trim makes for a timeless and dramatic entry into this stunning dining room!  I am swooning over the ceiling treatment and chandelier!  Not to mention how incredible this blue is framed by the black doors!

Behind these traditional, black painted doors lies a room of modern comfort and style!

I can't help but think this closet is nothing short of amazing!  Just a glimpse of the Hermes orange and Tiffany blue boxes makes me want to know what else is inside!  This is where style dresses each morning!

Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely evening!

Rhonda

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