Staircases

Lately, staircases have been a hot topic with clients. It can be an overwhelming decision because there are so many options- color, material, style, runner, etc. Take a look and see what you think. I'm partial to the classic, dark wood with white spindles, probably a result of growing up in an older home.

 .  

 

In love with the black and white in this picture! 

Now, for some non-traditional, fun staircases!  Is your house modern enough to have one of these?

 

Love this zigzag one!  I think my 18 month old might have a little trouble with it though!

Which do you prefer?  Classic or modern?

Crazy for PAISLEY?

Are you seeing paisley everywhere lately?  It seems to be in every clothing store and now it's making its way to home decor.  While I'm normally not a huge paisley fan, I'm drawn to it in the more subtle patterns and darker colors - navy, gray, and black. How about you?



Vintage paisley pillows from Etsy

Paisley wastebasket by Marye-Kelley marye-kelley.com

Chauncey chair from West Elm

Paisley window panel from West Elm

Paisley Plate from http://www.laplates.com/

What do you think of this classic pattern?  Do you have it in your home already or are you going to jump on this trend?



2012 Ball

While I love watching the stars walk the red carpet, I'm equally fascinated with the theme and decor of the Governers Ball.  I think I have this fascination for a few different reasons. The first being my love of design and how the room is made to fit the night's theme.  Secondly, I love fancy, over the top things, and the Governers Ball is overflowing with decadence. Lastly, I would be lying if I didn't admit that I take pleasure in knowing what the elite of Hollywood are doing and how they celebrate such huge events! 

Take a look at this year's theme, "Oscars in 3D."  The theme was reflected with gold-dusted chocolate Oscars, LED-lit trees, and beautiful flower arrangements.

What do you think?  Would you have wanted to be a guest at last night's Ball?!

The 84th Academy Awards

Where will you be watching the Academy Awards tonight? Wouldn't it be nice to view if from one of these fabulous rooms?!



(Mary McDonald)

(Mary McDonald)

(House Beautiful)

(House Beautiful)

(Lonny Magazine)

The Academy Awards Governers Ball

In the spirit of The Academy Awards tomorrow night, I thought I would share some past photographs of The Academy Awards Governers Ball.  Even though I'm not a huge fan of the decor in some of these photographs, it is still amazing to see the over-the-top ballroom themes! Take a look!

This is last year's ballroom!  The ceiling, that illuminated rainbow lighting, moved and transformed throughtout the evening!

The 2010 Oscars Governers Ball featured a décor design reminiscent of the late 1930's.

In 2009, the theme was East meets West...

And, in 2008, the ballroom featured a color palette derived from two of the Academy’s most recognizable icons: The Red Carpet and the Gold Oscar statuette. 



This is my favorite!  In 2007 the designers decided on an Al fresco romantic garden with chandeliers and draped flowers.

I love the design in 2006 and the theme of light.   

What do you think?  Which one is your favorite?  

Shop Ten 25

Shop Ten 25 is a fabulous source for high style decor at reasonable prices.  They hand select each item and they always have new and unique pieces. Check out their website, http://www.shopten25.com/  I know you'll fall in love with everything!  

I'm especially fond of the art they sell. I need both of these in my house!  And, it's so reasonably priced!

Enjoy!  Have a great weekend!

House Crush

Every once in a while I browse homes for sale in the Chicago area just to see what's out there.  Wait until you see this house!  It is absolutely STUNNING! Too bad I will never live there!







This bathroom could be my favorite room in the house!  I am loving all the white. The light fixture is amazing too!

 
Again, I love the simplicity.








Do you like it as much as I do?  What's your favorite room? It could be yours for $4.5 million!