Good Vibes At "The New Bohemians" Book Signing

A little over a year ago I attended a Social Media seminar** led by Justina Blakeney and Dabito.  Ever since, I've been more enthusiastic and confident about what I do, both personally and professionally.  Due to their advice and creative guidance, I rebranded Cocoon Home, redefined its clientele and embarked on a product line.  Along this journey, my children have been very present in my career and quite aware of its influences and motivators.  So, when when I heard that Justina Blakenely was going to be in Berkeley at Erica Tanov boutique for a signing of her new book "The New Bohemians", Max, Ben and Zoe happily agreed to come along to meet her.  Upon our arrival she greeted us with open arms and her beautiful signature smile.  At the event, the magazine editor of SFC&G, Alisa Carroll, interviewed Justina revealing more about what inspires her, her ongoing compulsion to redecorate her home and her many exciting future projects. The questions and answers were asked and replied to in a very natural way, staying true to Justina's authenticity and honesty.  She is so deserving of all the successes that come her way.  It's through her infectious kindness, her sense of humor and relentless drive that I, like so many others, find continued inspiration.   

**On a side note related to this very experience, I want to add that it's very important for everyone [especially mothers] to take time for themselves for growth and personal development.  Whether it be for professional or personal reasons, either through a seminar or a retreat, investing in oneself is truly a gift not just for you but also for your children.  When they partake in your new experiences or get to witness their effect on you, they become inspired as well.  It becomes a creative legacy that benefits absolutely everyone.

Design And Food: 3 Inspiring Books

Within the last few weeks, I've acquired 3 amazing lifestyle books.  Each one has me riveted not only on the images, but also on the texts that describe approaches to design, philosophies and flavors. The first book The Chamber Of Curiosity, I picked up while visiting Heath Ceramics with a friend (btw, they have a great book selection).  The second was a surprise gift from Alex,  Commune Design's first book:  Commune: Designed In California.  The third, Yotam Ottolenghi's latest cookbook Plenty More, I purchased it at his book signing event in SF on Friday night.  All three of these bound beauties will offer inspiration for our home, clients' spaces and for the taste buds of family and friends no matter how many times I peruse through them.    

Do you have a favorite go-to book for inspiration?

Before And After: Book Shelves (Part 2)

We recently added onto an existing built-in cabinet, gaining more room for our book collection and a more balanced space.  By recreating a mirrored image of the right side shelving on the left, our  unit now feels complete and so does the room.  Take a look:

In order for the built- in to look cohesive we painted the entire unit.  I used the same color but in a full gloss finish.  In this "before" the boys are helping us remove the books and enjoying them as well.

The Chinese chest that belonged to my mother-in-law sat above our living room bar.  Now, in its new home, it can be truly appreciated it.

Have you added any recent updates to your home?  If so, please share them.

Reader Giveaway: 3 Books***3 Winners

Publisher Ryland Peters & Small is once again participating in a Cocoon Home Blog reader giveaway.  This time  with not just 1, but with 3 beautiful home decor books.  Each one focuses on different approaches to interior design,  but all share a philosophy of personal style.   Take a look at these books and learn how to enter to win one below:

"Reclaiming Style" shares images and ideas on the use of salvaged materials to create an elegant home.

Mark & Sally Bailey, authors of "Simple Home "explore spaces that are both sustainable and stylish.

In "The Natural Home",  author Hans Blomquist shares his love of nature in revealing how organic elements can live in a sophisticated, eleclectic home.

Enter to win one of these books by leaving a comment on which one of them suits your home decorating style best and why.  Be sure to check out Ryland Peters & Small's Facebook page here.

All entries must be submitted by Friday December 15th.  Good luck!

Many thanks to KM at Ryland Peters & Small!

Moving Mode: Book Shelves/Before And After

There was a time (not that long ago) when I organized books by color, shape and size.   Not now, not in this house.  I've set my OCD aside (at least for a while) and let the books fill the shelves without any design restrictions.  This method did take a lot less time and effort and I actually LOVE the way it turned out.

 With all the moves we've experienced in the past,  I've come to the realization that each new space is unique.  What may have worked in one may not look right in another.   I'm enjoying letting go of some past decorating approaches and welcoming new ones.  Keep posted for more updates.