Eclectic House: Dining room

Rose Uniacke

Room number two of my eclectic house, is the dining room! This is a sort of controversial room in many modern homes. So many of us rarely sit down for formal meals anymore which begs the question, are they necessary? In the last year or so, I've personally had a change of heart about this issue. I think because I spent the last 5 years in a house that is very "open concept" and without a formal dining space, I've grown weary of not having that option. Its difficult to have many people over, because there's no where to put them! Maybe its a sign of getting older, but I want to have a place where my family can enjoy a quiet meal together in a beautiful environment. Needless to say, I am now Pro-dining room! My only requirement is that it not be the old-fashioned formal room that the kids could never walk into! Make it a creative and welcoming space (even for pesky little boys)

Via Houzz

This is the definition of eclectic, no? I mean the formal chandelier with a rustic table, mid-century chairs and modern art!
Wow!

Via Luxe

Via Houzz

I know we've been seeing chalkboard walls for a couple of years now, but I'm still LOVING them:)

If I could show photos of what goes on in my dreams, one of them would look just like this!

My favorite detail in this room is the charming art on the back wall. I'm not sure if its a photo or painting. Its a very simple piece but a tasteful way of displaying a personal photo. Not easy to do.

Find more of my eclectic house, dining rooms here.

Eclectic House: Kitchens

I'm building a virtual house, room by room. I think on the inside I'm a frustrated home builder. So, my first step to fulfilling my housing development dreams is to collect ideas of what I would like to see. Of course what would these houses be but eclectic! The question remains, would anyone buy into my vision?

Via Marie Claire Maison

Via Houzz

Okay, this photo isn't exactly of a kitchen...but its a kitchen skylight! I mean how fantastic is this idea?!

This kitchen may be my favorite. Its spare without losing its earthy feel. I have collected more eclectic kitchens
on my new Houzz profile. Go check it out here

Lovely Sounds

Everyone ready for Christmas? Usually that question makes me instantly stressed. This year I'm trying to slow down and enjoy everyday and every moment. I found this great song from Kitty, Daisy and Lewis on the Kate Spade website. They have a great sound, just right for putting anyone in a great mood. Listen to it while you make all those Christmas preparations:) Also, go to Kate Spade website and download this and some other great music free!!

Color and Grace in Houston

(Miles Redd)

This week has been quite eventful and exciting in Houston. We were fortunate to have several design legends in town Miles Redd, Marjorie Skouras, and Jonathan Adler. I know, right?! Its been decorator heaven around here lately.

On Wednesday, I attended the Fall Market at the Houston Decorative Center. PaperCity hosted a panel discussion on the inspirations of art and design. It was so exciting to see Miles Redd and Marjorie Skouras discuss how they started in design, what influences them, and how they go about bringing together their vision. Fantastic!

(Marjorie Skouras)

The discussion was great and while there, I ran into some friends. Paloma of La Dolce Vita, I met Jeni of Mrs. PlainJane, and chatted with Aaron and Ruth of Found. Of course, that isn't all I did this week. Be back later with the rest:)

Pretty Little Girls

This morning I was greeted by these sweet illustrations in my email. Artist Alice Dufay captures little moments with great simplicity. They can be found on L'affiche Moderne which is a great site for limited edition prints.

Fab

(The Beatles on Itunes)

Usually I'm not one for pushing "products". But, it can't be helped.

If you are wondering, this amazing photo was taken by Bruce McBroom

Real Estate Stalking: Austin

Yesterday morning, Mark and I said "Let's go to Austin!" Without any prior preparation we took off. It was a great time and I came back with treats. I happened upon this Artful cottage. when I took a wrong turn. (Sometimes mistakes are wonderful, eh?)

I only saw the exterior, but I knew the interior would have to be just as fantastic and it is. Hooray! Look at this place. At less than 1000sqft. its tiny, but who wouldn't be willing to make the sacrifice? Of course, the price tag is for you to make a decision about. Sorry, I can't help you there:(

Whoever photographed this house, I would like to say, bravo! These shots are amazing. I'm imagining framing the photo above and hanging it as art. Love it. (P.S. if you're wondering why I didn't take photos myself as I usually do. We left so suddenly, I didn't get to pack up my camera. I felt naked all day)

How many fantastic parties, could happen out here, I wonder?

The second treat is this little yellow house. Another mini house with lots of personality. I don't think this photo shows it so well, but the pretty color scheme really pops. Especially, that fantastic red door. I love driving around Austin neighborhoods because the houses are so unique and imaginative. I always feel inspired when I return home.

Another thing I love about the little yellow house is that it faces Sparky Park. I had never heard of it until yesterday, but I'm smitten with it now. It was built by converting a former substation into a piece of public art. I recommend stopping by if you are in the neighborhood.

Industrial Beauty

(Via Rue Magazine)

This morning I was drooling over these photos from Sfgirlbybay. Finding metal lockers like these, is the sort of thing I dream about. What is even more beautiful is the harmonious way this industrial furniture fits into a soft and serene room.

Love all the small details!!

The top photos reminded me of this photo of Sarah Jessica Parker's home in Elle Decor. That little blue cabinet takes away any feeling of generic design. Its such a unique touch.

Some of the most fantastic industrial pieces I have seen are from Obsolete. If you have never seen their website, go immediately! I'll wait for you:)