Sunset Inspired

Last night, I got to spend  the evening atop Mount Tam with old & new friends. We watched the sunset above the fog and were each overwhelmed by the beauty of the sight. I couldn't get over the way the light from the burning sun interacted with the thick bed of fog. It was incredible - and pretty difficult to capture on camera. Though it's impossible to capture the beauty of creation with human hands, I was inspired to think of ways I can capture the essence of a sunset in interior spaces. Using my photos from last night as inspiration, I curated a small collection of products that mimic the color & texture of the sunset that we saw. Enjoy, and go catch a sunset of your own! I've got a ton of Bay Area spots that offer the perfect vantage to watch it, if you need a recommendation!

1. Surya Abstract Pillow 2. Jonas Wagell Cloud Pendant 3. Ercol Love Seat in Graded Mandarin 4. Woven Laine Hand-woven Wall Hanging 5. How Are You Cushion Cover 6. Calico Aurora Wallcovering Collection 7. (again) Eric Trine Ombre Rod+Weave Chair

Leather Straps

Over the last month or so, I've reflected a lot on the furniture trends that I uncovered during design week in New York. This spring & summer, I've noticed a lot of leather furniture. This doesn't seem like anything new, right? The interesting thing about the furniture isn't the leather itself, though, it's the application of the leather. This year, it's being used in strips and straps. I love the light and airy qualities of the chairs & stools that I've sourced below. They are contemporary, yet timeless, with a touch of edginess. Sometimes, a fully upholstered leather chair feels heavy and unsuitable for the space. You're going to love these sophisticated alternatives!

1. Phloem Studio / Nadine Lounge 2. Eric Trine / Rod + Weave Chair 3. Miles & May / May Lounge Chair 4. Michael Robbins / Ranger Stool 5. Casa Midy / Punta Maroma Stool 6. Stephen Kenn / Inheritance Collection Armchair

A Swedish Apartment

Every so often, I like to dig into the depths of my Evernote files and click through my list of favorite interior photographers. Once again, I caught myself spending extra time on Jonas Ingerstedt's site. His interior photography is absolutely incredible - and I've definitely mentioned him before. This particular space caught my eye because, honestly, the designer has used all of my favorite chairs. In one apartment! It's almost too much. I've been on a bit of a Herman Miller kick lately - and dream of Eames chairs on daily basis. During DWR's recent Herman Miller sale, the daydreams actually got a little uncontrollable. The colorful molded plastic side and arm chairs are the essence of perfection, and the Eames lounge chair is simply better than perfect. Aside from the incredible furniture, I also love the overall styling of this space. I'll take that pink skateboard, please!

Hinterland Design

Since returning from NYCxDesign, I've been a little bit high on inspiration. I discovered so many incredible furniture makers that I hope to work with on future projects. Hinterland Design, out of Vancouver, was one of my very favorite vendors showing at ICFF. Their products stood out as unique, fresh, & innovative. My favorite piece of furniture, not represented on Hinterland's website, is a stool with a seat constructed of bright & colorful crab netting. Because the furniture is made in a town with a prominent crab fishing community, Hinterland sought out to repurpose excess netting. I love that! The stool was surprisingly strong - several guests sat and even bounced on the comfortable seat. I also love the vibrant pops of color represented in the "Little Gem" side tables and "Good Side" coffee table. Life is far too short to live without furniture this fun & inspiring.

SF Bedroom

It's time for a project share! I'm really stoked to reveal this one. I recently designed this bedroom for a friend in San Francisco - and I honestly wish it were mine. My friend is free-spirited, adventurous, and a little old-fashioned. She loves warm colors, rustic wood finishes, and vintage furniture. This was one of my favorite projects to complete in my free time. It was so much fun to work with a close friend, and help her achieve exactly what she was looking for in her San Francisco home! Enjoy!

Selections: 1.   the Adler Table / crafted in San Francisco by Ohio Design 2.  vintage suitcase nightstand / Etsy & Craigslist / image via Lonny 3.  the Gustavian Bed / Viva Terra 4.  the Otto Tibetan Fur Bench / MGBW 5.  the Copper Real Good Chair / Blu Dot 6.  the Cole Stool / Made Goods 7.  the Sophia Garment Rack / Crash Industrial 8.  the Nourmak Encore rug collection / Nourison 9.  a refinished vintage dresser / image via Natty by Design

Design Week Snaps, Part II

It's unreal that I'm back in San Francisco. Design Week passed far too quickly, and I wish that it could last a couple more weeks. These are some snaps from the second half of the week. My favorite secondary events were the Herman Miller and Alexander Girard exhibitions in the Meatpacking District. I could have gazed at the Girard panels and textiles for hours. I also enjoyed some quiet time exploring the Metropolitan Museum. I was thrilled to see a large Chuck Close piece in the Modern Art Wing. I also got to check out the Sketchbook Project Library in Brooklyn. My friend Greg showed me the sketchbook of one of his really talented friends, Greg Kletsel. I was completely lost in the pages, and I can't wait until the mobile library comes to San Francisco! Finally, I loved all of the copper products at ICFF. There were so many, and each was beautiful and unique. I'm thrilled that Bend has introduced this copper version of the Lucy chair. It's more fresh and modern than the typical powdercoat options.

ICFF Take 5, No. 3

During my third day at ICFF, I was drawn to a few unique products. I love the approachable & fun colors used by O&G, Blue Dot, and Bend Goods. I am thrilled to see that Blu Dot and Bend have both released new colors in two of my favorite chairs! I also love the tribal graphics on Sauder's gorgeous coffee table and the wonderful craftsmanship represented in Workstead's lighting. I think today might be my favorite feature, yet!

Bend Goods Blu Dot O&G Sauder Workstead

ICFF Take 5, No. 2

ICFF Day 2 was a complete success. I left the show with more inspiration and excitement over everything that I saw! I was particularly drawn to the delicacy of the glass in the light fixtures below, and the interesting materials used on the stools. I love the woven & knotted seat of the Hinterland stool - it was easily one of my favorite pieces in the entire show. This stool is made in Canada, where there is a robust crab fishing industry. The netting on the stool is repurposed from crab fishing nets. So unique! I also love Emeco's new collection. The SU stool, with a cement seat, is my favorite new product. I'm also crazy about the Drop chair. I am thrilled that Fritz Hansen has re-released this classic. I hope you're enjoying the ICFF snippets, and would love to hear favorites. I'll be back tomorrow with more! Fritz Hansen Alex Allen Emeco

Hinterland Design Pelle

Design Week Snaps

I thought I'd drop in and share a few quick iPhone snaps from the week. I've checked out so many beautifully designed spaces and enjoyed a lot of experiences that are quite unique to New York! On Thursday, I explored the retail scene in SoHo. The Carhartt store, on Crosby, completely stole the cake. I love the bright neon sign and minimal display fixtures. I also got to view the skyline, at sunset, from the top of the Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District. It was breathtaking! I also really enjoyed exploring Brooklyn and the Flatiron District. I grabbed coffee with a friend at the Nomad Hotel Library Bar. It was nice to take a morning to sit quietly and relax. Lastly, check out my cute little hotel room! I'm staying at The Row, in Hell's Kitchen. I love the bright graphics and clean finish palette. Stay tuned for more updates from ICFF later today!

I share a lot throughout the day on Instagram. You can follow me here!

ICFF Take 5, No. 1

It's here! ICFF 2014 has officially begun. I can describe ICFF pretty easily in two words: "Inspiration Overload." I mean, it's unreal! There are hundreds of exhibitor booths (over 600!) - and each one as intriguing as the last. Because there is far too much to see in one day, I've decided to share bits and pieces over a Daily Take 5. Each day, I'll share some of the best things I saw. Today was easy! These products completely wow'ed me. I hope you're as inspired as I am, and be sure to check back for more.

NLXL x Studio Job new colors from Artek Delightful Iacoli & McAllister Philip Watts

Anticipating ICFF!

As I gear up and prepare for Design Week in New York City (NYCxDESIGN), I'm overwhelmed with excitement for all that's in store! I've got my brand new Madewell tote on my shoulder and my camera in-hand - I'm ready to soak everything up and share it with you. There are so many industry events, showroom visits, and opening receptions to consider and plan for - it's going to be a busy & exhilarating 4 days. Over the last couple of weeks, I've also had the best time perusing the ICFF & WantedDesign websites to admire the curated list of exhibitors. Several vendor profiles have really caught my attention, and I can't wait to see all of the new, innovative, and fresh products for 2014. If you aren't attending the shows, I encourage you to follow along with Grace-Made, DesignMilk, designboom, and other participating design blogs for real-time updates on this week's happenings. I'll kick things off with the Blogger's First Look @ WantedDesign on Friday afternoon, and continue to post throughout the weekend.

Follow along on Instagram & Twitter!

NODO | Workstead | Grow House Grow |  Space 1A | Ronel Jordaan | Famaliving | Moving Mountains

Ace Hotel #DTLA

So, I've referenced the Ace brand multiple times - it's easily my favorite collection of hotels. I recently featured the brand-new Downtown Los Angeles location - and finally had the opportunity to visit last weekend. I traveled to LA to visit my best friend, and our brunch at the Ace was definitely a highlight of the entire trip. It's breathtaking - and even more beautiful in person.The brass table tops, artisan tile, and rooftop pillow collection were stunning. I audibly gasped when we got off the elevator at the rooftop lounge, where we were immediately greeted by hundreds of Kilim pillows (read about my obsession here). I could have reclined on that bohemian-inspired rooftop for days on end. Coincidentally, while sourcing furniture for one of my projects earlier this week, I actually stumbled across a cafe chair that looks remarkably like the ones used in the Ace Hotel's restaurant. I specifically remember them because I commented on the gorgeous woven pattern of the black-and-white seat back. I love the elegance that is executed throughout the hotel - despite the amount of pattern and texture present in the design. If you ever get the chance - STOP BY! - and enjoy my snapshots below.

Inspired Pattern

I thought I'd offer a sneak-peak at a project I've been working on. These prints (which are part of a greater collection) are inspired by young American women who embrace adventure. They love life, reach for the moon, and chart their own stars. I've always dreamt of pattern & textile design, so this project is an absolute treat. I can't wait to see where it goes! I created each piece using acrylic paint & gauche on heavyweight paper. Which is your favorite?

Bare

Several weeks back, I talked about an Edelkoort trend report that I attended. The 12 trends have impacted & inspired my thinking about design ever since. Though these ideas won't fully mature for at least another year, I'm seeing the trends begin to evolve even now. One of the trend categories, entitled "Bare," involves elements of design that are reminiscent of flesh. This includes color, texture, and volume. I'm always drawn to living spaces that feature the warm, soft, and inviting characteristics of flesh. I love these new lounge chairs upholstered in flesh tones. I can't wait for the opportunity to test this trend on a new project.... via Jeannette Lunde

chairs: Artifort Rocking Chair, Erik Jørgensen Eyes Lounge, Sancal Nido, Olsson & Gerthel Rama Chair

The Summer Seasonal Collection

I've been crazy about Heath Ceramics ever since moving to San Francisco two years ago. I love specifying their tile products on Interiors projects, and I love their innovations in ceramic accessories even more. I actually just bought last season's ombré bud vase for my mom's 50th birthday last week - and she loved it, of course! Their products are identifiable, always unique, and withstand the test of time. Heath officially launched their new Summer Seasonal Collection today -- and I am smitten! The collection was inspired by the Icelandic landscape, and it includes 3 matte colors reminiscent of the plant life and dark earth of the region. Personally, I'm wild about the lavender selection. It is so feminine and fresh! I can't wait to get over to the Heath showroom in the Mission to check these new products out!

all images courtesy of Heath Ceramics

Plywood

Over the last several weeks, I've spent time sourcing interiors that feature plywood details. Currently, there seems to be a growing trend involving the use of plywood  - but I think there will be lasting effects as more & more designers embrace the material. Plywood is wood in its most utilitarian & basic form. It has the ability to act as a neutral, and completely disappear into the landscape of an interior.  Plywood is also beautiful and extremely inexpensive. Affordability enables designers to explore solutions at a more reasonable cost and provide great design to more people. It's fluid grain adds another layer of texture to any space, and I've seen it used in large and small amounts. Whether you go bold and use plywood for architectural components, or keep things tame and use it for a small accessory or two, this material just wins. Charlotte Minty Charlotte Minty Barabasca-Made Clare Cousins Muuto Roland Persson for Ikea Livet Hemma

mug / throw pillow / pennant / carved gem coasters / wall clock / Scandinavian house shelf

Kilim

Yesterday, I stopped by a new (to me) restaurant for a cozy lunch with my boyfriend. I was immediately drawn to the piles of kilim pillows layered across the room. A unique cushion adorned each and every bench, armchair, and banquet seat. I'm a huge fan of vintage items as customization elements in a room - but I've never used a kilim detail in a space before. The flat tapestry-woven carpets are so colorful, textural, and unique. After seeing the gorgeous rugs repurposed as pillows at The Grove, in San Francisco, I decided to look for a way to bring the same vibrancy to my home. I turned straight to Etsy and, as usual, found exactly what I was looking for...

01  pillow // 02  pillow // 03  pillow  // 04  coasters // 05  handmade shoes

Florals

On rainy days, my attraction to bright, fresh flowers probably doubles. Today, my floral fix is the work of Lukasz Wierzbowski. His photography collection, entitled Neon Tambourine, is breathtaking. The consistent subject matter and aesthetic quality of his work is creative and mesmerizing. I picked my favorite photographs featuring ladies in nature. Go outside and be awesome this weekend.

all images courtesy of Lukasz Wierzbowski

J. Ingerstedt

Today I discovered the photographic genius of J. Ingerstedt. These emotionally-charged photographs are so powerful! The not-quite-perfect interior styling evokes a sense of use and wear that make these spaces so inviting. I love seeing the running shoes on the floor and the informal inspiration board pinned behind the bed. The layers and layers of personality give this home a charm that I can't tear my eyes from. I was initially drawn to the whimsical art & playful accessories scattered throughout the space. These unexpected elements soften and complement the otherwise stark, high-contrast architectural elements. There is a mystery about these rooms - something intriguing that makes me want to meet the owners & inhabitants. Spaces should be a reflection of the people that use them - so this design is a complete success. I will certainly file this away as inspiration for future hospitality projects. I could disappear for days in this place!

all images courtesy of J. Ingerstedt

Corona Heights, SF

At this point, I have many "favorite things" about San Francisco. It's really hard not to love everything about this place. One of the greatest advantages, of living in the City by the Bay, is that there is incredible beauty and opportunity for spontaneous adventure in every direction. I visited Corona Heights with Sean, for the first time, this morning. I cannot believe this gorgeous overlook is situated right in the middle of the city, in the thick of it all -- furthermore, I can't believe that I hadn't been before! We snapped some fun pictures and enjoyed watching San Francisco being oh-so-very typical -- as foggy as possible. Hope you had a beautiful weekend!

photos edited using the VSCO for iPhone app, by Sean Metcalf & Savannah Roberts