Friday, April 18, 2008

Letting My Mind Wander


I know I have been posting more than usual, but I am going to take a break for a few days; so I thought I would give all of you some things to read. Perhaps, the most important thing I would love for everyone to read, is an article called "27 Thoughts on Blogging for the Artist".
I've noticed a lot of bloggers have been running out of steam, and wondering what the point of maintaining their blogs. I sometimes feel the same way. I wonder if anyone really cares. I get disappointed when no one comments or my stats drop...its ridiculous but true. I also struggle to keep pushing my personal and professional goals. Trying to be a wife, mom, designer, and blogger can be daunting. I sometimes question why I'm pushing so hard. I realized that a lot of times I am only trying to impress people or make others think I am Super Woman. Lately, I've been trying to get back to what is really important. I am trying to find and fulfill my purpose in life and not to impress others; but because it is who I am. I am taking some time off to rest and ponder. Taking long drives is one of the ways I get my thoughts straightened out. I am going to take time to rediscover the things that really inspire me. I hope this article encourages others to do the same.
Be back next week :)

A Conscientious Remodel.

Here's a question. How do you find a balance between responsible preservation and making a home fit your present needs? This can be a difficult question to answer. Over the weekend I found a great example of the right way to handle this issue. Once again, via Houston Mod;
I came upon another Mid Century beauty. What I really loved about this house was, that it works for modern day families; but it has many of its original details preserved.
Little details, like the original cabinets and knobs; can be found throughout the house. There are also modern details (like the new mosaic back splash), that keep the house from feeling like a museum instead of a house. I will admit that I am just as guilty of tearing out perfectly good features of a home in order to update a look. Now, I would think twice about getting rid of details that give a house flavor and personality. This home has its original terrazzo floors, wood paneling and plumbing fixtures. It really works very well. For more photos, go Here.



Flow


I think this video is beautiful. You can read into it whatever you want, or nothing at all. What does it make you think of? Just curious...


irregular flow from 4khz on Vimeo.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Green Day


How's that for a title? Corny, perhaps; but I thought I would pay homage to my FAVORITE color....green! I never grow tired of green, and I wish I could use it in every room. That would probably a little weird, a better choice is to use it in smaller doses. For example, this amazing use of green on the kitchen cabinets. I started salivating when I saw these. I know what I want in my next kitchen.
I love the trend of painted kitchen cabinets. For years, I have favored cabinets with natural and exotic wood grains; but now I am loving cabinets with color. What is great about using painted cabinets, is that preexisting cabinets don't have to be replaced. That is an amazing money saver in any kitchen remodel.
I have to admit, I am not always a Pottery Barn fan, but I would love to have this relaxing and pretty hammock. When I saw the draperies below, I almost fell over. Oh, I love them so much! My favorite detail is the coordinating chair. How fabulous!

Helica Ceramics

Just wanted to share these amazing ceramic pieces from Anouk Omlo. She is a Dutch designer and this her most recent work, called Helica Series. Just because I'm writing about color this week, doesn't mean I can't include white. White is a color too, right?

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

How Time Flies...

I can't believe it, but its almost been two weeks since I traveled to Round Top. I'm so disappointed with myself, because I never posted my pictures. Does anyone even care anymore? I mean in blog land, two weeks is like 100 years! Well, here are few of my favorite pictures that work with my "color" theme. I posted the rest on my Flickr site, if anyone wants to look at them. I bought the bottles in the first picture, and placed them in my half bath for now. I also love these other pictures of collected items. The day was so rainy and COLD, these batches of bright colors were fun to see.

Monday, April 14, 2008

My Dream Home This Week: Colorful and Funky House

I am late with this post, but Liam has been under the weather. There aren't many things that are more unruly than a toddler who doesn't feel well.
Anyway, I decided that this week is going to be "Color Week". I noticed my posts have gotten rather neutral lately, so I am going to add a shot of bright and beautiful colors this week This colorful house is here in Houston, in the Heights area. I drove over there last week, working on an upcoming project of mine (more info. later...) While I was there I also met with the lovely Courtney for gelatos. Driving around, I remembered this adorable house that I have loved for a couple years now.
Recently, Houston's Tribeza magazine wrote an article about it. I was so excited to get to peek inside. Normally, I am one of those creepy people who drive by really slowly and stare from my car. I know that is awful, but I can't help it!
(Please excuse the "close" button at the top of the pictures. I couldn't figure how to copy the pictures w/out it.)

This collection of chairs is to die for! The little dog has the right idea. One of the owners is a gallery owner, she has filled her home with many interesting art pieces. Actually, the entry way is all glass, and normally displays large scale paintings. I think they change the painting periodically. Unfortunately, the top picture showing the front of the house, doesn't show the painting well. I only know this because of my drive-by gawking.

This house really is a dream house for both my husband and myself. We dream of building a unique and funky house for ourselves. When we saw this place, we both thought; "That's it!" I also love the Heights area. Its one of those "bohemian" type places, where you find artists, musicians, mixed with young couples and elderly people who have lived there, their entire lives. I feel I would fit in quite well...perhaps some day soon :)