Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Summer, please don't go...

I'm seriously fighting off the "end of summer blues"!  Waking up to a cloudy day this morning was just slightly depressing and we all know what's waiting for us right around the corner... ugh months of cloudy skies and rain and more rain.  However, I'm still completely optimistic that the sun will return for the our last long weekend hurrah on the island!
We've had an amazing time the last few months...going to the beach, so many road and ferry trips,  I can't even count them all (I swear we should get a frequent sailing discount for those damn ferries) ice creams at the beach, swimming, swimming, swimming and staying up late. 

Am I the only Mom who isn't looking forward to the new school year?  It makes me sad to send my little boy off to spend the majority of his day elsewhere.  Grade 2!  Where has the time gone? 
 
Here's a taste of how our summer went this year... fingers crossed it's not quite over yet.






Wednesday, August 24, 2011

How sad...

The heavenly, Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands burned down last week.  Thankfully, no one was hurt during the lightning strikes but how terribly sad to see this incredibly beautiful resort and surrounding area destroyed so quickly.  The resort is owned by Richard Branson who has said he's determined to start rebuilding as soon as possible.  I one for one, can't wait to see the brand new Necker Island rebuilt.  Imagine what he'll create this time around... paradise all over again!







*All photos courtesy of apartment therapy



Monday, August 22, 2011

I love Ebay!

If you know me, then you know how much I love Ebay.  Sure, it's probably irritating how many times I say "did you know you could get that cheaper on Ebay?"  Sometimes the deals are amazing and I feel like it's my duty to let you all in on it!  So, I thought I'd share a few of my Ebay finds from this morning.  The pouf is $99 and the Juju hat is only $250!  I usually search Ebay for specific items from places such as West Elm, Crate and Barrel and J Crew.. all the stores we are so patiently waiting for here in Vancouver!
Shopping online takes a bit of faith and you really do have to know exactly what you're looking for.  Always make sure to ask about shipping rates before you buy, otherwise your great deal could cost you more than you bargained for.  Just a hint.. I often ask the seller for a discounted shipping rate and most of them are willing to bargain a little.. can't hurt to ask!

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Tuesday, August 9, 2011

urban outfitters

Wow, I'm somewhat in shock here people!  Look at these amazing finds and from Urban Outfitters of all places.  We were sourcing for our clients last night and came across these fantastic pieces.  I'm seriously dying over the chevron rug and at only $69 how could you go wrong!?  I hope the quality is as decent as it looks.  It seems like most of these pieces ship to Canada... except the rug. Of course!  Booo! Fingers crossed they change that soon or I'll have to hit up a friend that lives across the line.

Looks like they are still onto the chevron pattern trend...which is fine by me!  It adds such a bold but simple, graphic feeling to any space. 

See the ruffled wash bag?  I've always wanted one.  It makes your dirty laundry look so pretty and it's only $39.  A steal compared to the others I've seen at $99!  We really pride ourselves on working with clients who have a wide variety of budgets.  Urban Outfitters looks like a perfect fit for those who want a hip, comfortable house on a limited budget! 










all photos courtesy of www.urbanoutfitters.com


Monday, August 8, 2011

For the love of books...

As a mom and a designer, my book collection is really important to me.  Design books offer up new inspiration, different ways to tackle space planning issues and keep you on top of the current trends.  Cristina and I reference our design books all the time when we're brainstorming ideas and concepts for our clients.  Not only that, books can be a fantastic way to add layering to make any space feel finished.  A carefully arranged bookcase, filled with treasured books can be beautiful and functional.  Don't get me wrong, I love blogs and that instant jolt of inspiration that comes from the internet but there is nothing quite like holding a crisp new book in your hands.  I'm looking to add to my design book collection and I thought I would share some of my favourites with you.

What are your favourites?  Let us know...
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 This is certainly not a new book but it is the perfect antidote for those of us still mourning the loss of the Domino magazine.  Tons of inspiration in this little green beauty!

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Decorate is new on the market this year and beautifully presented by the American blogger (now living in Germany) Holly Becker.  Holly writes the hugely popular blog Decor8 and has now published this fantastic book.  I was thrilled and pleasantly surprised at just how much I love this book.  Even my Mom commented on it and said "Wow, where did you get that great book?"  It's absolutely packed with unexpected colour combos, tips and resources for all kinds of budgets.  

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Are you sick of me raving about Tricia Guild yet?  Everything she does is magical in my eyes!  This is her older book but it's her best by far.  Really, the perfect book for all of us who love bold, unexpected pattern and colour combos.

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How could you not love the quirky, clever title on this one?  And for anyone who has ever stepped foot in my house knows that this is definitely my motto!  I love that this book confirms to all the designers out there, that there really are no more "rules" in decorating anymore.  

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I'll be honest, I hesitated putting this book on my favourites list.  The feminist in me thinks the title is ridiculous!  Sure, the publisher was probably trying to be cute and catchy but honestly "How to be Adored" Really, who cares!?  However, the shallow designer in me took over and this book is really  too outrageously beautiful to not be on my bookcase. 


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Not a design book but more of a cook book with design tips, this one is chock full of delightful recipes and pretty ideas for table settings.  Practical and pretty!  A book for everyone. 

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I simply had to add this lovely book.  I admit I'm partial to it, my husband recited the poem "She Walks in Beauty" to me at our wedding almost ten years ago.  (Right now I'm really wishing I had a video of that to accompany this post!)  So although it's not a design book, I think it's important to fill your book shelves with all different kinds of books.  What you read and hold dear is the true expression of who you really are. 

Enjoy and happy reading!