The Way We Live: Art In An Updated Ranch

Earlier this summer, I had the pleasure of touring the home of Christy Mack, art lover, collector and consultant.  Her house is a mix of vintage and new mid-century furnishings, objects of interest and art, LOTS of it. She has a knack for finding and placing canvases.   Whether in a client's home or in her own, Christy combines colors, textures and curiosities in a effortless way.    

Growing up with parents that antiqued and thrift store shopped, she learned "the thrill of the find" and later, through her mother in-law's extensive art collection, she became familiar with the who's who in the art world.   As you walk through her beautiful home, you'll experience photographs taken by her and her husband and her son's art alongside noteworthy oils hanging or layered on walls and surfaces creating many visual treats.

When Christy is not out immersing herself in the art by working with artists, galleries, museums and art collectors she is serving the community.  Christy recently served as  President at the Lafayette Juniors League and is a founding member of 100 Plus Women Who Care Contra Contra County.  Both of these organizations raise funds for other local non-profits that benefit women, children and seniors in need.  

Thank you, Christy, for your efforts on behalf of many in our community and beyond for sharing your house with us! 

 For the readers who would like to know more about the non profit organizations that Christy is part of please click here and here.

You find Christy on Instagram @cmackorart

The Way We Live: A Haverhill Mansion

While on the East Coast, the children and I had the opportunity to visit a friend whom I met 15 years ago, when Cocoon (the store) first opened in Boston.  Having stayed in touch all these years, it was a real treat to finally see his new home.  Its grandness took us all for surprise.  Filled with a lifetime of memories, this historical house balances New England tradition with a healthy dose of creative flair.  As the kids and I toured the house (almost getting lost a few times) we were not only taken by its size, but with number of family furnishings and objects that have remained so dear to its occupants throughout the years.  Pairing pieces from their individual pasts with items from their present, created an inviting and eclectic atmosphere.  One I just knew had to be a feature in The Way We Live.  

Many thanks, MV, for your friendship and for sharing your beautiful home with us.

The Way We Live: Art, Tales And Canine Friends

While in Boston, I had the opportunity to spend a night at a dear friend's place.  I've always felt welcomed and comfortable in this home.  My friend's place is earthy, eclectic and classical at the same time.  Little vignettes scattered throughout the house are meant to remind of exotic trips, special family memories or stories of a personal nature.  There are seashells from a trip we all took to Vieques Island almost 9 years ago, her Nana's favorite chair, seed pods collected on hikes in many faraway places and, of course, there is Henry (featured above).  The walls are a feast for the eyes due to an amazing art collection. While music played faintly in the background, I snapped away trying to capture a brief moment of my life in her very special space.

Thank you JG for hosting me and for sharing your warm and cozy home with our Cocoon Home Blog readers.

One of my favorite things as a blogger is to feature people's homes in "The Way We Live".  Homes that aren't overly decorated or styled, homes just as they are.  It has been gratifying to photograph so many wonderful spaces.  You can see more of them here.

I believe that Cocoon Home Blog inspires its readers to surround themselves with objects that speak to them and for them.

If you're a new visitor to my blog (via Apartment Therapy) please take a moment to look around the site.  It's where I feature work done for clientsand also share inspirational design images,botanical compositions, occasional DIY projects, and reflections on my personal journey through life.

If you like what you see and read, please cast your vote for Cocoon Home Blog here in The Homies Awards under Home Design and Inspiration.

Many Thanks!