Monday, May 14, 2012

Inspiration - Chris Barrett Design

It's funny how a few select issues of our favorite magazines seem to harness the most powerful inspiration, when others are simply temporary (although very pleasant) nourishment for the decorating-brain cells. I found one of these issues a year ago, during an annual birthday trip to the beach.  

I also keep this particular issue on the top of my coffee table because I love the colors and the cover image... deep wood tones, bright whites, the texture of the pink flowers and the turquoise masthead.

House Beautiful July/August issue - Chris Barrett's home - via Chris Barrett Design

This isn't breaking news by any means. But for those of you who missed it, and those of you who may have forgotten about it... I thought you would appreciate a few photos from this feature of designer Chris Barrett's home in the July/August issue of House Beautiful.  Every room seems so stylish, and very cozy at the same time.

House Beautiful July/August issue - Chris Barrett's home - via Chris Barrett Design

House Beautiful July/August issue - Chris Barrett's home - via Chris Barrett Design

House Beautiful July/August issue - Chris Barrett's home - via Chris Barrett Design

My favorite room is the kitchen
House Beautiful July/August issue - Chris Barrett's home - via Chris Barrett Design
I think it's interesting to note that a huge reason for my adoration for these photos is the styling.  I'm not down-playing Ms. Barrett's technique, taste or execution at all... but rather applauding how the stylist utilizes vibrant pink flowers and orange hues from the freshly cut cantaloupe to make a couple of these photos so intriguing.

By the way: I want these paintings! Really, really want them! Any idea where they are from?
House Beautiful July/August issue - Chris Barrett's home - via Chris Barrett Design

Do you recall seeing this feature before, or this is your first glimpse?  Does any element in particular appeal to you the most?  What do you think about the use of color? Or about the styling in the photos?  Would you do anything differently? Please share!


Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Succsies on the Brain (Succulent Inspiration)

I had a couple of fairly clever post titles that played on the word "succulent".  Fortunately, I allowed the hubs to convince me they were semi-inappropriate or potentially offensive. :) So I'm creating a new word. Succsies. "Succulents", without that annoying third syllable.  Who needed that last syllable, anyway?

I literally dreamed of succsies a couple of nights ago.  Bright green succsies, purple succsies, droopy succsies and plump succsies. All just a-floatin' around in my dream-noggin'. Probably because I bought two succsies in the last few weeks and am probably going to make a.... okay, I can't keep this goin all day... succulent garden for the dining room table.  I did a little pinning and also found some google-inspiration last night. Here a few inspiring succulent arrangements.

This vertical wall art takes my breath away.
vertical succulent wall art - via etsy

Can you believe these huge succulent orbs? Stunning.
succulent orbs -  via Dig Gardens Nursery

This lush arrangement of succulents trim a staircase throughout the warm summer months.  During the summer, they move the plants (which are tucked into soil-filled chicken-wire frames) to a heated green house.
via marthastewart.com

I saw this centerpiece first a couple of years ago, and now I always keep my eyes peeled for some lovely goblets like these. 
I've searched for the original source. The earliest source I can find is here.

These succulents are planted in a recycled flour sifter.  So charming.
succulents - via Fiskars

And last but not least.  I must have these.  I must have these.  But they're $300. If you have the cash and no self control, go do the damage here.
man and woman head vases / planters - photo via oh joy

Are you a fan of succulents?  Have you found a favorite spot or two in your home, or a unique way to style them? Or are you new to the idea, but thinking of giving them a try?

If you don't like them, you succsies. (There, I fit it in somehow, ha!).

- Erin