WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS...

... Use them! Anna Spiro of Absolutely Beautiful Things can do no wrong. Yesterday as I perused her blog, I noticed a common theme that deferred slightly from her usual large bouquets of big, beautiful flowers. Bright, happy, summery lemons.  They're not only fresh and delicious in the kitchen...

the perfect punch for the space above, and a lovely subtle elegance below when the leaves are kept on!

An added bonus, they last for much longer than flowers and won't affect your allergies. I think i'm going to get out a lovely little tray today and do some arranging myself!

Bold + Color = WOW Combinations!

Today, these stunning combinations of bold colors have captured my attention. It reminds me a little of this home  featured a couple of weeks ago.  Granted many of these rooms have dark walls which really make these brights stand out, but I think its just as accomplished with stark white (a la the blue and white below)!

there is a total 70's quality about this room, I adore it to the fullest. The gorgeous jewel tones, and... how could I not love this radiant pink!

This might actually be the most perfect shade of pink. For the kitchen that is...

[ via ] bright.bazaar, the decorista

...but seriously... they made you say wow right?

Antlers

As M and I get ready to move into a new place, I've really been making an effort to find a design scheme that is more "ours" and, not just the things I like. For some reason, this means antlers.  I think they're fun and playful in a room, and add a touch of masculinity.

I think I will just get one pair, and "frame" them like this.

Lastly, you may be thinking... where do you just, find a pair of antlers? Craigslist my friends. I never thought it would be so, but it is, abundantly.

Would you buy antlers?

How Does Your Garden Grow?

There is something so fresh and whimsical about a terrarium in a jar. They are a really great way to bring nature inside without having plants in the open (if you're anything like me, I just can't seem to keep indoor plants alive). The jar gives the presentation a little extra pizazz, and can mask the fact that your plants inside may not be all that real.

For this fun little project, you can find the supplies for the inside at Pottery Barn, and the jars and such at Michaels or Home Goods

photos via viva terra and apartment therapy

I Dream of Velvet

How I long for a glamourous velvet sofa...

Living Room Balance

It has been a crazy day down here in central florida... I apologize for the late post. However, despite the long day, I am excited to share with you one of my favorite things, facing living room sofas. It really creates a center and balance in the room, as well as making it cozy and conversation friendly. I have facing sofas in my own living room, and it lends itself to such an intimate setting. 

Printed Animal Heads

This year we have seen many uses of animal heads in decoration, whether its above the fireplace mantle, on a living room wall, or in a man cave, they have been ever present, but always different. There has been everything from real, to wire, to cardboard (a la David Bromstad's apartment). These heads from rubyslounge on etsy are sure to be a conversation piece in any home.

Zebra Print Rugs

For a long time, I thought zebra print was so tacky. However, in the past couple seasons, it has gained major popularity, and has been used in some really great rooms! I even find myself interested in finding the perfect rug...

this room may be serious overkill for some, but I think the extreme menagerie of prints is really fun, and somehow works beautifully.

some photos via where the sidewalk begins and house beautiful

Trunks

Unfortunately, my computer is broken, and that means my archives are also unavailable. However, here are some trunks that I pulled. Trunks, if done well, are such beautiful pieces, and unique. Today there are so many quality trunks that can be used in a variety of ways, side tables, coffee tables, even consoles.

restoration hardware

pottery barn

patina stores