What I'm Reading Today

While in the airport yesterday I picked up the latest copy of Domino Magazine, special edition Small Spaces.  I thought it would make for an interesting read while on the plane, but a quick nap got my attention instead.  So, today after I've gotten caught up with a few projects, I plan to sit and have a leisurely browse through one of my favorite magazines.  I was so glad to know that I wasn't the only one out there that sorely missed Domino when they ceased publication a few years ago, and was thrilled to have them publish a special edition (now their third), for we who find inspiration in their pages.

 

 

This issue is on newsstands until June!  Plenty of time for you to pick up your copy!

 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda



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Oh The Places You Will Go! Entry's, Foyers, and Hallways...

Not that I've not ever given entry's, foyers, and hallways much thought in the past, I can honestly say not as much as I have in the last couple of months.  Since submitting my proposal and being selected to do the lower hallway of the upcoming 2013 Cathedral Antiques Show Inspiration House, I've imagined, sketched, and researched to create just the right concept and theme for my space.  The Inspiration House is all about integrating antiques and vintage furnishings and elements into our more contemporary interiors today, and doing so seamlessly.  So, I think it only natural for me to notice these spaces more than I have in the past.

 

 

It is quite common to overlook these transitional spaces; not giving them the thought and consideration they deserve.  We often look at them as a means to move and transition from one space to another, not recognizing the wonderful opportunity to create something that makes this journey through our homes more adventurous, exciting, and beautiful.

 

 

I know, I know, typically these spaces aren't very large, so coming up with great ideas may elude us.  These are some of the most difficult spaces to design because you do want to consider the size, where they're located, and to what areas they lead.  But these obstacles shouldn't deter us from being creative and designing the most impactful spaces that we can.

 

 

Doing a faux finish, a beautiful wall covering, tile even, or a mural is a wonderful way to go.  If this isn't possible, there are numerous designs that can be done with paint; whether it be stensiling, stripes, etc., etc. just find what works best for your home and your lifestyle.

 

 

Zushing the space with art, interesting lighting, appropriately scaled furnishings, plants, you name it, will also make a tremendous impact and probably one that is completely unexpected to those who experience the space for the first time.  Also, be sure not to neglect the ceiling and floor!  Let me tell you, a little here and there on these two planes go a very long way!

 

 

If you're fortunate to have a larger space, go ahead and treat it like a room!  Add the furnishings, the rugs and draperies, and all of the elements that make a room an incredible place to live in.  There is no reason to do less just because you don't spend a great deal of time in them.  In fact, you should do more to make your travels from space to space one that is pleasureable and makes you happy that you did!

 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Original image credits can be found via my All In The Detail board on Pinterest



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Monday's Office Space And The Journey To Find It!

I hope everyone had the most amazing Thanksgiving holiday weekend!  Mine was filled with spending time with my family, cooking, and getting the house ready for Christmas decorating!  O my gosh, we went to a Christmas tree farm and cut down our very own tree!  We've not ever done that before and it was totally a lot of fun!  I may upload the video I shot!  Hmmm, I don't know, I hate the way I sound on those things!  Anyhoo, lot's of fun was had by all!!!

 

Before we get to the actual images, I would like to be forthcoming and say that often times I am somewhat lazy, yes lazy, when it comes to searching for the original credit for photos.  Not that I am trying to take credit for the beautiful images that I post, that's just wrong; but sometimes finding who shot them, the publication, or the designer is a daunting task.  I do feel like everyone should be given credit for their work!  It's only fair and it's the right thing to do.  Therefore I will always cite my source.  With Pinterest being so huge right now and being able to capture the site an image was pinned from, it makes it a lot easier to find, as well as the use of Google Image Search.

 

 

So, I first saw this image on Pinterest, of course, and pinned it to my Work Spaces board from Ashlina Kaposta.  The Decorista, herself pinned it from The Dust Jacket, a blog much like my own, edited by Debra in the Australian countryside, which led me to The Rag Rug blog, edited by Saani and Joona in Turku, Finland.  This is their studio, where they work, entertain, and live.  I love, love, love the desk!  It takes up so very little visual space and is very clean and modern!

 

 

I wish I could have an all white space, but unfortunately I would need to clean daily (maybe a couple of times daily) in order to not be overrun by dust bunnies, unsightly marks, and God only knows what else!  A large mirror leaning against a wall is never a bad idea!  It was recently brought to my attention that I have mirrors in every room in my house.  I really had not ever noticed that before.  Really!  Isn't it funny that someone who notices details did not notice this in her own home?  Interesting... I will analyze this later, for sure! 

 

 

I really need to get some of these lucite organizers!   It makes it so much easier to see and grab whatever is needed without wasting precious time going on a scavenger hunt... Always a fan of having things like books, magazines, photos and posters in plain site to become apart of the decor.  Speaking of organizers, I am such a Container Store fanatic!  I could spend hours in there planning an efficient and organized work space, pantry, laundry, kitchen, etc.  Oh, and they have some of the best gift wrap!  No, they didn't pay me for this plug (I wish they had), but they do have some great stuff for wrapping lovely gifts!  You should totally check them out this holiday and let me know what you think.  I know, I seem to wonder off topic sometimes!  I did say this blog was about my "random musings", didn't I?

 

I am very grateful I do!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images  

 

P. S.  For those of you who have voted for me on Modenus.com Top 100 Interior Design Blogs; Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!  Great Big Hugs and Kisses for you all!  For those of you who have not and wish to, voting is still going on and I would love to have your support!  Just click here and scroll down until you find me (STYLISH SPACES DESIGNED FOR LIVING)!  At last look I was #40, but with voting constantly happening, that can change in an instant!



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Draw Me a Bath and Let the Day Melt Away!

You know, it's actually quite funny; I'm not much of a "bath" person.  Honestly, I think them to be quite gross in fact.  However there are times when I feel a little stretched beyond my limits, when I think a bath is just what I need in order to regroup, refresh, and renew.  Surely, some of you know exactly what I'm talking about...Anyhoo, I'm having one of those moments! 

 

One of these days I am going to get the courage up to photograph my bathroom for you guys to see.  I like it, I do.  I've just not done very much to it since the builder selected their less than lovely elements.  Sure, I've painted the walls with Restoration Hardware's Stone paint finish.  Hmmm, that's about it!  But, I will say, that went a long way in making a difference.  It has a separate soaking tub and shower, and a nice size double vanity with a slab of a mirror, and those tragic makeup lights above!  Oy!  It also has a separate water closet, with no door, but I'm okay with that, as I think a little claustrophobia may set in if I were to hang one.  Definitely wouldn't want that!  Nothing that can't be changed and done so pretty inexpensively!  Oh, and let me not forget the hideous brass fixtures.  Ugh!  Although brass is making a comeback, just not "this" brass!  The ceiling is vaulted and I could do a beautiful chandelier!  I could really trick this space out!  And I will...one day!

 

 

This window is fantastic!  There's nothing better than applying makeup in natural light.  The tub strikes me as being very comfortable and relaxing.  You know, almost cocoon like. 

 

 

Although much of the bathtub isn't seen here, I do like the small silver and glass etagere standing charge with the necessary bath salts, loufahs, towels, and books at the ready.  That shower looks really tempting to me!  Loving the marble application on the walls and ceiling!

 

 

I think this to be a handsome bathroom.  Not necessarily because it has masculine elements, but because it's linear, simplistic, and seemingly very functional.  I like the louvered skylight above and the slated shelf below the vanity for towels or other bath acoutrements.  Hmm, so maybe masculine is not the word that I'm looking for.  Maybe, "smart"?

 

 

What I love about this bath:  The tile!  The draperies framing the tub!  The small chair!  Last, but certainly not least, that freaking incredible chandelier!  Moving on...

 

 

One word...STRIKING!  Is that a swan fixture delivering the muscle relaxing, mind soothing water into the tub?  Could that be an arm chair in the corner with a throw draped casually about the arm awaiting my exit from my tension relieving bath?  I wonder what music am I listening to?  Oh, I know!  Shirley Horne with a little bit of Coltrane...ahhh "Here's To Life (and the joys it brings)". 

 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via my Tumblr

 

P.S. If you're so inclined, I would appreciate your support in being listed as one of the Top 100 Interior Design Blogs on Modenus.com! Just click on the link and scroll down until you see STYLISH SPACES DESIGNED FOR LIVING! Many thanks, my Friends!



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Monday's Office + Interior Designer Kate Hume

I don't know about yours, but my weekend flew by!  It was great!  Both days I spent time with friends laughing and talking and...anyhoo!  I even managed to get a little work in.  Hmm, came to some realizations as well.  That's not completely true.  Just a couple of things that I already knew, but was thinking it was something that I didn't really need to tackle right away.  NOT!  It's time to tackle them and plan for them accordingly.  Moving on...

 

 

This office strikes me more as one suited for a man, but I can see the softer persuasion using it as well.  It just needs a few more feminine elements.  I love the simplicity of it with the unexpected zebra rug.  I wonder what profession is the person who uses this space.  I would think no nonsense, astute, but with a sense of humor; not taking themselves too seriously.  What do you think?

 

 

I really like the rich wood finish of the cabinets in this library.  Still very modern with simplistic and functional details such as the ladder and the long arm task lamp mounted to be used when needed at the table below.  I'm not all that sure about the black birds/crows perched in front of the gentleman's portrait?  A little too Alfred Hitchcock for me!

 

 

Wall compositions are a wonderful way to add interest and character to a space.  I love the cabinet mounted on the wall in the midst!  How great is the low cabinet below!  Such a well designed wall and room!

 

 

A really chic, luxe closet!  That flooring looks incredibly soft and it complements the wall covering nicely.  I'm ready to move in now! 

 

 

This is the picture that began the journey to finding the other great images.  I pinned this image on Pinterest and searched the original source to find Kate Hume, and amazingly talented interior designer.  I hope that you will visit her site and take a look at the incredible designs she has created around the world in interiors, furnishings, and glass accessories.

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images heijdenhume.com

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Design Inspiration: Mirrored Walls

It wasn't that long ago when the mention of mirrored walls would immediately make me think of those tacky mirrored sliding closet doors that were trimmed in shiny brass or some other garish metal.  If you have or have had these in your home, you're not alone!  So have I!  Thank goodness, times have changed and we have become a lot more discerning in our design choices!

 

 

The clean mirrored, vertical panels of this office space further enhances the modern look and feel; making it very chic and sophisticated. 

 

 

I like how this floor to ceiling mirror adds depth and creates an artful composition through the reflection of the items placed in front of it.

 

 

I really didn't think I would like an entire wall of mirrors as shown in the above image, however with artwork and sconces nicely hung and arranged it is actually quite nice and tasteful.

 

 

Screens are a great way to introduce mirrors in a non-commital way.  This one is lovely.

 

 

Again, I think when treated as just a wall by hanging pictures and such, and placing furnishings in front, enhances the rooms personality and adds an elegant quality.

 

 

Impactful and stunning!

 

 

You can never go wrong with floor to ceiling mirrors in the bathroom!  Well, as long as they look like these!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images



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Design Influence: Modern Glamour

 

 

The striking contrast of the dark finishes used on the moldings and floor gives the room structure to seamlessly carry the cream and ivory color palette used in the furnishings and the wall finish.  The singular painting and arched built-in shelving was all that was needed to punctuate the look.

 

 

The chandelier, mirror, and silhouette of the chairs injects feminine flair giving the room character and depth with elegant sophistication.

 

 

The curve of the stairs along with it's railing and the custom tufted banquette in a lush fabric furthers the Hollwood regency style.  I love the birdcage-esque crystal chandelier!  Very glamorous!

 

 

 

 

Using draperies to line the walls is another glamorous touch.  I would feel like I'm in an old black and white movie lounging on the chaise and drinking a glass of wine (white wine)!

 

 

Marble flooring, glass, and antiqued mirrors grounded by rich dark wood finishes...can you think of anything they missed?  I cannot!  Well, maybe I would have considered using different lighting fixtures, but the work here is beautiful!

 

 

Mission accomplished in this home that was built in the 1930's.  The color palatte of ivory and cream with dark finishes and details, such as the furnishings, moldings and cabinetry enhance the look and feel that the homeowners were after; 1920's Hollywood regency.

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via At Home In Arkansas magazine



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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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What Does It Mean To Further A Theme?

I really love the images of Ivanka Trumps Upper East Side Manhattan apartment featured in the October issue of Elle Decor.  Ivanka collaborated with Kelly Behun to create the comfortable "warm modern" home she shares with her husband, Jared Kushner and new baby girl, Arabella Rose.  The apartment overlooks Central Park and only blocks away from her office.  Talk about having your cake and eating it too!

 

This is by far my favorite of all the images featured!  I am so in awe of this foyer!  The driftwood table was designed by Behun and has an amazing mosaic glass top.  Don't you just love the contrast of something so rustic and something perceived to be as fragile as glass?  I adore branches of any kind and to have these sitting atop the table in silver glass vases with their voluptuous silhouette, leaning towards the mural that was handpainted by muralist Bob George Studio is nothing short of striking!  I am struck by how the mural looks like the shadows of the branches on top of the table!  I love it! The narrow bench (although beautifully upholstered and properly scaled for the space) isn't much of a perch to sit on and enjoy the room, but I suppose it would do for a bit!  While this isn't your typical spot in a wooded park, it does bring the outdoors in in the most glamorous way! 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 



*Image via Elle Decor



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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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