Sharing Inspiration

This post is for a friend - gathering together some photos and opinions for creating a home. I thought I'd do it on this blog so that I can access the organized ideas in the future!

FIRST,
I'm not convinced that a house must be decorated fully in the style of the architect. Some elements should flow, but overall, you're not limited to exactly one fit. One example is the blend of rustic and industrial - which could fit a cottage home or apartment or bungalow or farmhouse. Modern can mix into traditional, and cottage and blend with classic. Here is a photo to think about:

The light fixture is elegant, the bedspread is plain, the art is funky-antique, the chairs are classic, the lamp is mid-century modern? and window treatment could be boho. Yet it fits together just fine and I think the ceiling is what makes it a lovely room. I feel like this room could mix with a variety of interiors. So choose the style that you love, that reflects your personality and the functionality of your family, and then blend it with the exterior style. It'll work out well (in my opinion!)

Also, here is an article on what paint colors go with wood trim. It's at least an interesting read: http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/02/26/paint-colors-for-rooms-trimmed-with-wood/

SECOND
I have two home inspirations to share. Flicking through these home tours really speak to me, but for different reasons. Here is the first:

http://www.homeplans.com/plan-detail/HOMEPW76449/dazzling-cape-cod-with-spectacular-living-space

This home has quality and simplicity mixed with beauty in the details. I think it would be a fantastic home to take style ideas from. The batten-board wall treatment, beams on the ceiling, and great lighting make this home so striking even though it's comfortable and simplistic. This is a design style that would be so easy to call home. To live with. To change around for seasonal decorating if desired.

Here is another house that makes me smile:

http://hiyapapaya.com/blog/archives/1609

This house is busy with color. It is bursting with fun. I love simplicity but this house reminds me how playful a home can be.

This is one of my dream rooms:

I love the beauty of the quality floors and the simple colors with striking contrast... but it's not practical for a family...but my take-away is to remember that shapes and scale and architectural character  are what bring beauty.

Also, to wallpaper small areas - like a bathroom - is something I like:

And - I really love this light fixture from Lowes. Would set the tone of a pretty amazing diningroom!

http://www.lowes.com/pd_511350-43501-FD13-033_0__?productId=50096172&Ntt=18+light&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3D18%2Blight&facetInfo=

Which is a cheaper version of this:


For that home in particular, Restoration Hardware would be a great place for inspiration - order a catalog and drool over the beauty of neutrals!


The attic will be a super fun place to decorate... update the bathroom and it'll be like a luxurious get-away for your guests!

These wooden walls are fun with the rustic pop of color:


But I love classic white too:



Here is a mix of classic and color (I love this light gray paint btw) that impresses me - for example, would you have ever thought to pair that rug (size and color) with this table and chairs?


This picture reminds me that there should be some repetition (all matching chairs in this picture, with yellow pulled throughout the room) but that you can get by with mixing up a lot.

LAST thoughts... the kitchen... I'm liking the marble backsplash, neutral and beautiful but not loads of color in the backsplash... sometimes the herringbone pattern is nice. I like gray cupboards like these:




 White is my favorite for a kitchen. Simple fresh bright and classic. I don't get tired of white kitchens - though I kind of like the Island being a different color:



And I like glass doors on at least some cupboards







Refurbished Islands can be cool:


I like ones with the refurbished wood on the existing island - cheaper than replacing the island:





 Or another example:

(Sarah Richardson kitchen design)

The whole reclaimed wood look is super fun:

 http://houserevivals.blogspot.com/2012/07/how-to-use-reclaimed-wood-in-your-home.html


And here is a fun kitchen - such a mix and looks so welcoming



Here is an article to skim for kitchen renovation ideas:
http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2014/01/kitchen-trends-here-to-stay/

Happy Planning!!!