A Home Worth Living In

There's something so exhilarating about taking a home tour that actually looks lived in. More often than not when I'm scrolling through some of my favorite blogs or perusing through Pinterest of stunning home interiors, I think to myself "Is that even livable?" When I was still contributing to the San Diego Community Newspaper Group, I was introduced to a number of amazing homes in La Jolla. Once particular abode still tickles my interior design fantasy for it's concrete interior, natural use of light and family style kitchen. Though the home owners were less than pleased with the resulting images, I am rather fond of the livability that is revealed in a place that breathes comfort while still exuding sophistication. (yes, that is an Aemes Chair). 

Canyon Road in California

I run a certain path after work not for the heavily shaded trail but for the homes that lay beside it. 

Do you ever peek into homes and try to figure out what their lives are like? If I were to stroll by this Lafayette property, I would immediately think the owners were adventurers. It's surrounded by lush foliage that show off the Bay Area's unique climate; it's open windows are inviting and peaceful. Design is key to this property, especially since everything is clean and modern. Wouldn't you want to be their friend?

{images via Zillow}

Color Block

There's something so refreshing about summer. The colors, the heat, and the long days make it easy to fall it love with the season. I'm getting inspired this year by fun Etsy finds - including Kilim's shoes. Made from hand-woven Turkish rugs and bound by supple leather, they might be the perfect go-to slip on for that unique pop this year. Of course, Ikat pillows are always on my mind, especially when it comes time to find that perfect summer ensemble that'll put me in the right mood. 

{images: pinterest, Etsy, Kilim's, Free People}

A New Outdoor Space

Since I've been back and forth between San Francisco and home lately, I've made it my mission to create an outdoor space in what used to be a garage in my parent's backyard. Santa Barbara's relatively moderate climate calls for an outdoor space that is both comfortable and cozy for those "winter" evenings, and I think that an outdoor living space is the perfect thing to accompany the pool and lush landscape we already have outside. I've been looking through Pinterest for some inspiration, and started watching HGTV ("Design on a Dime" is a new favorite!) for some additional ideas. It's going to be a DIY summer. 

International Interior Design

Holy moly this space from Croatia just blew me away. Just a great use of color, patterns and texture to make things feel bright without overpowering the simple luxury of relaxing at home. While I love looking at design spaces, I noticed something recently - it's really about all natural light. I think one essential in my next home is going to have to be great windows and great natural lighting (a more difficult find in San Francisco, unfortunately) - it is a home accessory that one cannot do without. 


{images}

Dwell Studio

Josh surprised me the other night with a new subscription to Dwell Studio {yes, I am a design dork}, and the 2011 Holiday catalog just arrived. We're looking for a few more accents to complete our home, including throw pillows and a new media center, and Dwell Studio offers some great inspiration. The pillows are exactly what I love, though I'm having trouble convincing the boy of the same, as well as some fun knick-knacks for accessorizing the house. It's perfect for newbies with a little edge. 

Have you checked out Dwell Studio?

Fashion Show

The lovely Michelle invited me to her spring/ summer show at the San Diego Se Hotel. "Ornamental Dreams" was picturesque in the frigid weather (those poor little girls in the swimsuits!) and really showed off M. Dot Design's unique style. I'm looking forward to wearing my summer dress once the weather finally stops being so dramatic