by lauraadmin | May 31, 2018 | NOC
Hello Friends,
When one’s job is to shop all day every day, it takes something really special or unique to grab one’s attention. The physical rush when I see that perfect piece causes my heart to beat a little faster and I lose all sense of my surroundings.
Some of the pieces below are pieces I have recently found, and a few are ones that I fall in love with a little more each time I see them. The lines and proportions of the tuxedo sofa below are simply perfect!!! The ebonized fluted cocktail table is the punctuation mark in any statement room. Each of these pieces are beautiful and unique and add that special something to any room.
I am at a place where I do my best to only buy pieces for my home that I truly love. I have come to realize that if I am totally mesmerized by something and it gives me joy each time I look at it, it will not become a piece that I am looking to replace in 6 months.
I hope some of these pieces serve to inspire you.
Vanguard sofa and cocktail table, Serena & Lily basket, PB Teen zebra rug, Circa ceiling light, Worlds Away mirror
by lauraadmin | Feb 25, 2017 | NOC
The internet has completely changed the landscape of design on so many levels. Being able to hunt for the perfect piece from dozens of retailers in one sitting has allowed us to expand our reach, and thus our vision as both consumers and designers, tremendously. We are no longer limited by geography.
While at the Salon today, I was chatting up my stylist about the parallels of fashion, hair and home (see my posts here and here on this connection). She was lamenting about how she was ready to redo her home and how hard it is to find good quality furniture. I have this conversation (or some variation) on a weekly basis. To which, I usually ask: “when was the last time you bought a sofa?” The reply is always within the past 5-7 years. My point being, we are such a disposable society that we no longer keep or pass down heirloom furniture. We should not look for furniture that could survive a nuclear war, or that our kids will want 20 years from now. Most of us will go through 2-4 major style changes throughout our adult life; therefore, it is just fiscally prudent to save on furniture and decorative items for your home. The most successful and interesting design is ALWAYS done with a high/low mix.
In this powder room below, I used a wall paper that is insanely expensive, but the mirror is from PB Teen, and the agate art I actually made for about $60.
Below are the three stores designers can be found on a weekly basis:
- IKEA – If I had a dollar for every time someone turned up his or her nose at the thought of purchasing anything from IKEA, I would be a rich, happy girl lounging poolside with my bestie (my beverage butler 🙂 While I don’t advocate outfitting one’s entire home in IKEA, there are undeniably stylish pieces and décor staples that I go back to over and over again. I need to do an entire blog post on all of the IKEA hacks I’ve done that ALWAYS end in “I can’t believe that is from IKEA”. The key to successfully using IKEA furniture is the way in which it is assembled. Each piece has to be reinforced with screws, and the dowels (most pieces come with) must be glued in. This retailer is a great resource and should not be overlooked. Here are some of my favorite pieces from this retailer.
The modern classic Tulip table, need I say more?
Pedestal table, DWR Pedestal table
This rug is ICONIC; so much so, that other companies knock off this design, repeatedly!! It is also one of the most pinned rugs on pinterest!
$300 for an 8 x 12
IKEA Stockholm Rug
I have used the Besta Storage buffet (shown below) more times than I can count. I’ve painted this piece (gray, black and left it white), added beautiful hardware and voila!…a really nice piece for an entryway, dining room or family room!
Besta Storage, brass pull
I LOVE this rug for a kid’s room!!! Its color scheme is very versatile.
The other things I love to get at IKEA are towels, faux succulents and art.
towels, succulent, art
2. ZARA HOME – We all know and love Zara’s clothing store. I have two pairs of jeans I wear on repeat (seen here and here) both are from this retailer. This fashion powerhouse defies all that we think we know about fashion. This brand is known world wide and dictates almost every trend we see each season. However, most people don’t know that they have a home division as well. Zara Home has a very minimalist vibe that is big on style, but not on price. Below are some great staples from this retailer.
decorative coral, WS Home Coral
Love this starburst mirror! We have seen this classic shape done in metal many times, but this style done in a completely mirrored surface is a unique interpretation. The beveled “rays” add a high end detail. At this price, this mirror is a must have.
mirror
Some other great stapes: cabinet knobs, accent table, hotel bedding and stool.
Mother of Pearl knobs,Marble accent table, Hotel banded bedding, hammered stool
3. World Market – You are guaranteed to find something at World Market. It is extremely trend driven, so this is a great source if you want to update your home with on trend pieces. I love their selection of outdoor furniture. Outdoor furniture can be very expensive, and even if it’s kept covered, it still looks worn and faded after a few years. World Market’s price point lets you get good looking furniture that you don’t have to feel bad about replacing in a few years. Below are some pieces that are a great find!
The French bistro chair is always a classic and can be used indoors or outdoors. Serena and Lily has cornered the market on this chair; however, this piece from WM looks likes a pretty good dupe to me.
World Market Bistro Chair, Serena and Lily Bistro Chair
Sectional sofa, Stool, Adirondack chair, Wicker chair
Interior Design is really about creating a space that captures the spirit of those who inhabit it, while respecting the identity of the space itself. I love the quote by William Morris, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”. If you adhere to this, you will never go wrong.
I would love to hear about your secret sources, or the stores that you know will always have what you need. Also, let me know what you want to read more about!
Happy Weekend!!!
XO
Laurie
by lauraadmin | Jan 23, 2016 | NOC
You have slaved over putting together a room in your house. You are almost done. You find the PERFECT piece that will be the finishing touch to your room. However, that perfect piece is a lot more than you wanted to spend, and will put you over your budget! You have been patiently waiting for it to go on sale. What to do? Find the PERFECT replica, for MUCH less!
I’m not going to lie, it takes a lot of time and effort to search for replicas. However, it is all worth it when you find that perfect piece! Here are some amazing designer knock offs that give you that high end designer look, for a fraction of the price.
I have always loved the Parson Table. This design was designed by Jean-Michel Frank in the 1930’s. It is as relevant today as it was then. This is truly a modern classic! In my original post, Pier 1 had a great table for under $500! Sadly, this is no longer available. Here is another great alternative from Zinc Door.
This gold and marble cocktail table is of perfect size and proportion. The geometric detail adds a lot of visual interest. The table from Overstock is a great find!
I LOVE mirrored furniture. It reflects light beautifully, and adds just the right amount of sparkle to a room. This piece would look great in a dining room or bedroom.
Below are nickel plated console tables. Glass tables are a great way to add furniture without taking up a lot of visual space. Great for smaller spaces.
There is something very chic about Zinc. It has a great looking patina that looks rustic, yet refined. This could serve as a console or desk. Add a lamp with a shiny finish, and your are good to go!
Unless a throw is made of cashmere or fur, it should not cost $300. I’m sorry, but that is absurd! This cotton throw from target is a great find and comes in many other colors. Since a lot of designers farm out their production to factories overseas, there is a good chance this was even made in the same factory.
This is a really stylish headboard. The nail head detail adds a lot of interest and gives it a special look. With the $1200 you save, you could buy some high thread count sheets and a nice duvet 🙂
I am a sucker for interesting looking accessories. These metal spheres add so much interest and style. Add them to a bookcase, inside your kitchen glass cabinets or on top of a stack of books on your cocktail table.
I could spend all day posting these design hacks! There are so many great deals to be found. There are some things I feel are worth the price and are truly an investment (a great sofa is one of these things), and somethings that are worth taking the time to find a cheaper alternative. We no longer buy heirloom furniture. Most of us do not want to have our furniture for 40 years, to later pass on to our children. Therefore, we are not looking to spend a small fortune on each piece.
My philosophy always (whether it is furniture, clothes, shoes or purses) is to buy the best you can afford. But, be selective. In my opinion, I would rather invest in great kitchen cabinetry that is crafted of superior material and will withstand the wear and tear of many years of use, than on a $15,000 dining room set that I will be sick of in 5 years. The best rooms are the rooms with a few high end pieces and a few design hacks. I’m warning you though, the hunt becomes just as fun and addictive as the savings!!
Hope you enjoyed this post on designer replicas. Let me know if you have found any great knockoffs that you want to share.
xo Laurie
by lauraadmin | Dec 29, 2015 | NOC
I believe that hosting is an art. Everyone knows someone who throws really fun and memorable parties, making it all seem effortless. In reality, it is anything but. A hostess acts as a conductor of sorts, orchestrating all of the details necessary in ensuring that a great time is had by all of her guests. An important element to any great party is a fun and festive atmosphere. Your decor is a fun way to create atmosphere. You don’t have to spend a fortune, however, you do need to be thoughtful and purposeful in the decor you choose.
If you are hosting a party on New Year’s Eve, why not ring in the new year with style! I always view New Year’s Eve as a glamorous holiday filled with champagne and all things sparkly. One of my favorite NYE themes is the old Hollywood Regency glam look. Here are two looks (a gray, black, silver and white color scheme, and a black, gold and white color scheme) to serve as inspiration for your party.
gray, silver, black & white color scheme
This look is a modern interpretation of the Hollywood Regency look and very easy to achieve. The main elements of this look are mirrored furniture, tufted upholstery, bold, graphic prints and gleaming metals. I added pops of fuchsia to keep it bright and interesting. This look was achieved using elements from Z.Gallerie, Lulu & Georgia, PB Teen & All Modern. Below are some more elements that could be added to achieve this look:
The next look is a black, gold and white color scheme. This is a more authentic HR look.
black, gold & white color scheme
This look was achieved using items from Z.Gallerie, Lulu & Georgia, Serena & Lily and All Modern. Below are some more elements that could be added to achieve this look:
In this version of the HR look, I relied more on bold patterns to create atmosphere and impact. The graphic rug serves as the back drop to this look and the pillows, art and accent chair serve as the pops that add interest. Every element is very structured with strong shapes. The gold adds the sparkle to this look.
Wishing all of you a happy, healthy & prosperous 2016. Thank you for taking the time to read my posts. I would love to hear what you think, or if you have any suggestions for future posts.
xo Laurie
by lauraadmin | Nov 30, 2015 | Accessories, Things I'm Loving Right Now
Who says the best deals are on Black Friday? Cyber Monday has some pretty great deals………and, nothing beats shopping in your PJ’s!!!!!
For my hostesses this holiday season, now is a great time to freshen up your home with a new rug and accessories. Budget permitting, a new piece of furniture would definitely elevate any room. I really love the way a bar cart looks; it is so chic and grown up!! Check out the Dwell Studio Connaught Bar Cart. How could you not feel glamorous pouring a drink from this cart? However, If you only bought one new piece of furniture this year, I would recommend the Jonathan Adler’s Delphine mirrored side board. There is something special about mirrored furniture, it really adds sparkle to any room!
Horchow – 30% off select items. Free shipping on orders of $50 and more. Use code HOLIDAY
Serena & Lily – 25% off EVERYTHING….use code: BESTMONDAY
Dwell Studio – 20% off site wide. Free shipping for orders over $49
As always, I’d love to hear about things you are loving right now or any suggestions you have for future posts!!
Happy Shopping!!! Xo
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