Client Update (II): #beaconhillchd

About this time last week I was in Boston working with my #beachonhillchd clients.  I shopped and selected rugs, accessories, and even plants, for their newly renovated space.  With the addition of the textiles and botanicals the rooms took on a 'homier' look and feel. Surprisingly, the color orange became the accent color in the main living areas allowing for ottomans and pillows to be interchangeable between the different spaces.  In the kitchen we emphasized the cabinetry color, Farrow & Ball's Railings, with a dark rug and oversized vintage botanical prints.  Brass hardware and a lighting fixture lent a classic look to this space.   For the first time ever, I got to see the Modo Chandelier in its destined spot:  smack dab in the middle of my clients' huge living room window.  I love it there and I'm happy to say my clients do too.  All of the lighting we selected for this Beacon Hill residence is spectacular and there's more to come!

I'll be venturing back in the warmer months to tackle the dinning room area and to add some final details to the living room.   Many thanks to AK and BD for allowing me the opportunity to work on your home.  It's been,and continues to be, a great experience!

Client Update: #beaconhillchd

For the past year I've been working with clients in Boston.  At first, we gutted their Beacon Hill condominium to update the utilities, raise the ceiling, refinish the floor and restore some of the residence's architectural details.  Over the summer I had the opportunity to begin decorating the home and I'm flying East tomorrow to continue the process.  We'll be adding rugs, accessories, accent pieces and, of course, some indoor botanicals.  Follow my search as I Instagram potential items for this project at #beaconhillchd.  It will be fun to have you along!

A Gilded Leaf Inspired Table Setting

We're hosting Thanksgiving this year and I couldn't be more excited.  Firstly, because it happens to be my favorite holiday and, secondly, because of my love for a well dressed table.  This year, gold tipped leaves inspired a table setting that turned out both earthy and sophisticated.  Vintage Russel Wright dishes, a colorful runner, berry filled twigs, wood and brass create a look and a feel that complement our home's mid-century design well.  Take a look and find out below how to quickly gild leaves for the upcoming holidays.

Himalayan pink rock salt decorates each setting and is also a take home gift for our guests.

Clusters of berries tied to the gilded leaves serve as mini botanical arrangements that can become hanging ornaments for our guests.

Gold Tipped Leaves

Supplies:

Magnolia leaves (they're thick and won't crack as the paint dries), gold paint and twine.

Instructions:

Tie twine to the leaf stem. Dip the tip directly into the paint. Hang and let dry for 1 to 2 days.

Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving.                                                                                                                                 

The Way We Live: Classic Elements And Bohemian Accents

This happens to be the 16th home photographed and featured in my blog's [hands-down] favorite category:  The Way We Live.  Each of the spaces I have shared with you has been completely different from the rest but equally beautiful and representative of its owners' style and life experience.  I'm honored to have had the opportunity to turn my lens on this East Bay home.  Its mix of textiles, patterns and color reflect a casual elegance with an inviting coziness, making it a family friendly showcase.  Pieces that have been in the family for generations blend seamlessly with newer acquisitions, thus honoring the past and present in home decor.  In this post the owner (and friend) shares her living room, which much like the rest of her home, combines classic elements with sophisticated boho accents and feel good colors.  Take a look:

Thank you, BJP, for sharing your chic and cozy home with my Cocoon Home Blog readers.

Decorating Decisions: To Run Or Not To Run

I've been searching for a runner for our 9' long kitchen island for quite some time with little luck.  I'm not sure if it's a matter of not having found the right one yet or if it's a matter of 'less is more'.  For practical reasons, I like having something soft underfoot while cooking while giving the floor some extra protection, but now I'm really wondering if my search should quietly end. I need your feedback as to whether or not you like the kitchen floor better with or without a runner.  Also, if you happen to come across a rug/runner that you think may work, PLEASE let me know.  Take a look at some of my attempts below and give me your honest opinion.

The challenge is finding the right colors and patterns to coexist with the current area rug in front of the refrigerator and pantry (the only one I truly love).   HELP!!

IMG_0296-e1401829650750

Looking forward to your suggestions.