Umbrella Art courtesy of Target

As the Mr. will tell you there are times my Home Mags pile up in the corner just begging to be read. When I do have time to read them I often rush through just glancing at the photos for client inspiration. Lucky for me last week I took an afternoon grabbed my ice tea and headed outside to go through my stack and boy am I glad I did! This room from designer Barbara Franceski had an unexpected element, "Umbrella Art"! She wanted to make what is usually a walk through room a show stopper and was determined to think outside the box. Thankfully a rainy day and a drying umbrella was right there for inspiration! She took her two Target (yes Target!!!) umbrellas, dismantled them, fastened the tops to the wall and tada she had a great piece of art with fabulous pattern and color! The added nailheads and fabric wallpaper just accentuate the color! Fun right?

 What do you think, would you use unexpected objects for Art in your home?

(images from Traditional Home)

A soothing white getaway by the bay

This home in Chesapeake Bay Maryland is perfectly fitted for a weekend of relaxation. The white walls and furniture play off the dark wood floors in a way that creates a calm atmosphere with just a flair of sophistication. The open kitchen and living areas beg to be entertained in with their easy flow into one another. By the end of the day there would be no better place to relax than under the pergola on the deck. Drinks, please!

great computer nook in the kitchen, not to mention an adorable pupper too!

(images from traditional home)

Escaping to Nantucket!

Can you feel and smell the fresh air?! Take a look at this glorious Nantucket Summer "Escape" Home I found over at Traditional Home. Isn't it just lovely? This summer I seem to be drawn to summer homes with very neutral palettes. This one is so very serene and feels welcoming just looking at the photos. I see myself swinging on the hammock on the front porch enjoying the Nantucket summer breeze. With most posts I try to only show a few pictures, only my very favorites but I could not dwindle it down so here are 8 to feast your eyes on. Once again I find myself daydreaming of a beach house!

Heavenly!

This room is 50ft long! A warm mix of living rooms and dining areas. What a place for a party or a cozy night down by the fire!

Notice the blue paneled folding door towards the back, just fantastic!

This is a keeper photo! Someday I would love to have beds just like these, tucked into a nook with the sound of the ocean waves just outside the window. Perfection!!

(images from Traditional Home, Interior Designer Elizabeth Corker)