Dining rooms in all flavors

Some dining room love for you guys today! Anybody else on the east coast feel that shake yesterday? I'm right outside DC so it was pretty scary here!

via Adore Home mag

via Concrete Wall

LOVE the large tree branch!
2 above via Elle Decor

via High Gloss

Pinterest

I have to paint our table - it's so sad right now.  I love how the feet of this one look dipped in gold!
Pinterest

A fun new book to check out

I was lucky enough to be able to review "The Big-Ass Book of Home Decor" by Mark Montano. The decorating projects are modern, always budget conscious, and I think easy enough for most of us to do. I also liked that he has a list at the end of decorating project "basics" that he always keeps around the house to have on hand as needed. Here are a few of my favorites.


A wall finish done with a rolling pin

Each project has an instruction page.

Love the sketch look of this butterfly pillow




And a super cute birdcage pillow

The book also includes templates for the projects in the back so you can photocopy them and use them as stencils. You can buy it online at places like Amazon.

The most interesting room in the world

So I had a reader come to me with a really fun request -

"Have you seen those Dos Equis commercials, about 'the most intersting man in the world?'
I have a library that I'd like to decorate like that - leather, skeletons, artifacts, books - and I was wondering if you could do a blog post on rooms that have that sort of 'worldly' look." -V

In case you're not sure about the ad she mentions - you can watch it here.

Here is a shot from the ad and two photos I found on the Dos Equis website.


Here are some images I dug up to provide some more ideas and inspiration for achieving that old-world, well traveled look.

This library is very similar because of the stone fireplace and rich upholstery and fabrics. Notice also a globe, stacks of old books, and the scientific painting of the skull.
via Fresh Home

From a Buenos Aires bed and breakfast.
via Claundine's Homes

Maps are an easy way to accomplish an worldly look, also they are affordable and widely available. You could even go to a used bookstore and find maps in books to cut out and display.
via Apartment Therapy

via Great Interior Design

via Ralph Lauren Home

two above via Style Rumors

via Design is Mine

via Point Click Home

Notice that in all of the rooms that dark walls instantly create a sense of intrigue. Also - keep in mind that most objects should not match -or come as a set. Curiosities and artifacts are gathered overtime from different places. You'll have different textures and colors in your fabrics, furniture, and objects.

An academic atmosphere also contributes to a worldly look - journals, good illumination, and organized collections.
via Point Click Home

Classic architectural sketches are also a nice touch - and can be found in flea markets and bookstores - even better if from your travels!
via Home Interior Design Themes

A faux stucco plaster treatment is a gorgeous way to create an antiquated look.
via Sandy Foster

Turn to libraries and museums for ideas.

Specimen drawers, apothecary jars, and specimen mounts are all ways to give your objects an "interesting" look. You can find these supplies at specimen and lab suppliers.
Two above images from via Curious Expositions

Thanks Victoria for a great idea! Does anyone else have some tips or ideas?

Murals, faux-finishes, and tons of inspiration from the talented Allison Cosmos

When I was back in high school I used to make extra money by painting murals - mostly in kids rooms. It was rewarding but very,very hard work. So I have a deep appreciation for people like Allison who are so talented - and tolerant of sore necks!

Allison Cosmos is the artist who completed these murals and gorgeous faux finishes. Which is your favorite?


Those curtains are painted on the ceiling!


"A Scalamandrie toile inspired the hot pink & orange color scheme on these guest bedroom walls. Tiny orange lines on white create shading and depth "

Love the crisp contrast of the geometric pattern on the floor - and that you can still see the wood grain through it!



"Around the fireplace, a soft botanical garland gently falls from the top. The walls, ceiling, moldings & floors received color-washed & dragged finishes. "

*drool* The cupboard and detail above are my favorite. I love the delicate detail and the line quality!
I like this creature too.


See more at allisoncosmos.com

Gorgeous European Interiors

Lots of prettiness for you this morning! I've collected some images that I feel are particularly sensual. I feel like they focus a lot more on patina and texture in France - thoughts?


I love the juxtaposition of this rusic table with the elegant pink walls and gold accents





Love the composition on the mantle


I really love the chest of drawers against the wall - what a great piece for organizing

check out the wall! It looks like a detail of a Monet!

via Marie Claire Maison