.a few of my favorite things: textured focal walls.

ever need design advice for that oversized blank wall you don't quite know what to do with?  textured walls can be a great focal point and an easy solution in both commercial and residential spaces.  it's almost too easy a solution in some cases because they look so great if the right material is selected.  think about the wall as an art piece.  utilize 3d tiles, multi-colored tiles, textured cement or plaster, pressed wax, or create a visual texture with paint.  the options are endless and all up to you! 


take a look at some of these images and products from california based company soli: 


p.s. keep in mind.. lighting is EVERYTHING when it comes to texture on a flat surface!


xo

     

.the latest in LEED: the platinum home.

arlington, virginia is the home of the first certified LEED platinum home designed by kaplan thompson architects. located in the heart of the city, and within walking distance of public transportation, schools, and shopping, this 3 bedroom house, built by metro green, is the perfect mesh of contemporary design and sustainability.  the space incorporates reclaimed wood flooring, fsc certified decking, xeriscaping, a green roof, solar panels (soon to be installed), geothermal hvac, low voc paints and finishes, and a rain water collection system just to name a few of the great features. as a LEED certified designer, i think this is a very exciting time for future home builders! take a look and follow the links to learn more!


xo

      

.what a gem.

it may be strange for some to hear.. but a powder room just might be my favorite room in the whole house.  it's the little hidden treasure of the home... the gem.  it's a room that should have its own character, and a place to have fun and splurge.  go for the glass tiled wall, or the crystal fixtures.. a snazzy sink, or maybe a gilded toilet if you like that kind of thing.. if anything, at least incorporate a bold color or a tone on tone pattern.  you could even go the opposite route and create a minimalist or industrial look.  whatever the style, make it your own.. make it a room you can walk into and smile. :)


p.s. don't forget the ceiling!


xo

           

 

    

.dream backyards.

the nicer the weather gets, the more i think about spending time outdoors with my friends and family.. cool summer nights hanging out under the stars, laying out by the pool, cookouts, parties, small get-togethers with a few drinks on the back porch..  outdoor spaces are a great way to expand your living space, especially if you don't have the sq. footage indoors. they also give you the opportunity to have fun and go wild with colors, textures, and lighting if you're too nervous to explore your creativity indoors.. and don't forget the plants! keep in mind not only what you see, but what you hear and smell as well.. all of these elements will come together to create your very own dream backyard. 


i'll admit, i'm so excited to design my first house with my future hubby, but i'm most excited about having great people over to enjoy the backyard. i've been saving just as many outdoor images that i think are beautiful as indoor images.. here are just a few from my files to get you thinking about your own backyards :)  


xo