April Flowers

The cold weather is relentless, but flowers, vibrant hues and all that spring’s crazy energy brings is fueling me.  And I’m not letting go.  Here are just a few things keeping me happy, focused and full.

In the world of interiors… although I will always remain true to neutrals navy, grey, natural and black- I’m feeling obsessively drawn to exotic hues primarily inspired by India based textile designers.

The inspiring textiles (above) will soon be paired with the Raw Silk collection in our newly launched interchangeable ottoman line. Shown below in Azure, a favorite amongst designers at Margo Moore Interiors, where our product line will soon be offered. Oh boy!

On a beauty note…. since we Northerners can’t get the naturally tousled, ocean kissed look quit yet, I’m relying on Beauty Counter’s new Sea Salt Spray and loving it.

And then there’s wardrobe… somewhere between being painfully anxious to venture beyond my winter (elastic waist) necessities shielding me from the cold and keeping me cozy and comfortable, and the unimaginable exposure of my skin, I land happily at a new pair of worn-in jeans… forever and always a must have.

Stay tuned for my next post – for the love of pink!

A Launch To Remember

Creating something beautiful, functional, needed AND marketable has been a dream.  I’m wildly excited to introduce our new furnishing line where all the pieces fit together, literally in this case.

Announcing… an interchangeable and modular furniture system designed for seating, ottoman and table top. This design is simple, refined, contemporary and with a super LUXE edge.

Each “slab” or component lifts off of our handmade steel frame to easily shift, allowing for endless options- three cushion ottoman/bench, two cushion with coffee table, one cushion footstool, and so on and so forth! Why not toss all the (hard bottomed) cushions (with washable slipcover) on floor, insert three slabs of granite on base for comfortable Japanese style dining… I would consider that convenient and fun!|

The frame is offered in 5 sizes: Extra Large- two oversized slabs, Large- three slab, Medium- two slabs, Small- one slab, Tall Small- one slab for bar stool/corner table.

Choices of fabrics include:  durable waxed canvas, fine wool, raw silk and eco friendly flax.  All being washable and in a thoughtfully selected array of stunning colors.

Our coffee table slabs are offered in exquisite Maine stones, butcher block and glass.

This product is 100% designed and handcrafted in Maine. A worthy fact to proudly share.

Contact me for more information on ordering.  And stay tuned for additional launching images, website SHOP page, list of retailers and much more.

Thank you for being part of this exciting process!

And Then There's Blue

At unpredictable times in my life I allow the universe to guide me.  I love these times – surrendering to the intense energy that surrounds us. I cherish these times – noticing signs and totems smack dab in front of me, driving me to think and feel on a deeper level.  And more often than not, these moments of connection offer incredible insight and inspiration into my world of design.

I am drawn to the ocean – always, but especially so when I am needing direction. The emerald sapphire blue hue from Maine to the Caribbean, French West Indies to the Blue Grotto and beyond – ignites memories specifically during times of contemplation. This naturally given hue will forever bring me to the sea.

During the first spring of being a mom – exhausted, worn and emotional, several little bluebirds appeared on our fence EVERY morning. This beautiful little totem reminds us that “we are born to pure love, happiness and fulfillment.” Also though, symbolic of “the need to work hard and play hard. Be careful of shouldering too much responsibility.” This marked the beginning of a spiritual path for me. The striking blue feather is perfect beyond compare and has influenced color palettes around the world forever.

And the peacock… while in the depths of my most transformational time, I spotted a peacock in Maine. Yes… Maine and yes… a peacock. This exquisitely colored bird, gracefully symbolizing patience, acceptance, openness, beauty, wholeness, self-confidence, kindness, compassion, and luck, was the totem I grasped onto to help guide me through personal growth. And happily it inspired the Peacock’s beauty and colors on the walls in my home.

Let this quiet color inspire you – promoting tranquility, security and peace. 

Please like, comment and share, because that’s as moving to me as the color blue!

WORKSHOP: Room Makeover

Room Makeover Workshop: making your home a space you love.

I am excited to announce that I will be offering a workshop for those looking to gain aesthetic insight and establish a design plan for a specific room in your home. My focus will be on how to achieve a balance between function, form, flow and feel. And how best to create a place that reflects you and those whom you share your home with.

Guiding you in the following areas:

1. Decide what it is that you are looking for– how does your house make you feel, how would you like to change it? What are your needs? What influences your living environment? Prioritize!

2. Establish a budget– designing with style on a budget is easier than you think, although figuring out what you realistically have to spend is an important step in the process.

3. Adopt an idea & establish a direction– what styles and themes inspire you? What artwork, finds, things are important to you?

4. Research, Design & Devise– personalized one-on-one guidance that will help you create a peaceful, meaningful and beautiful haven.

5. Color, Texture & Furnishings– choose from my very own hand selected color palettes, fabrics, furnishing, lighting resources and DIY’s ideas- all current and timeless.

You will leave with a comprehensive plan including: a design board, itemized worksheet with cost, and a schedule that will allow you to dive directly into your project or work step-by-step overtime.

I will be providing inspiring, original and current content to work with. My philosophy on design is centered around a natural, timeless and elegant style that incorporates one’s personal symbolism- current, but never trendy.

DETAILS:

Location: Camden and Cape Elisabeth

Dates:  Offering workshops on weekdays and weekends, with several to choose from- Contact me for options!

Cost: $200 for 4 hr workshop.

Space is limited.

Healthy Body, Happy Family!

Enjoying delicious food, no matter their fat, calorie or carb content is part of our lifestyle in this family. We love pasta, cheese, artisan style bread with (organic) butter and a lot of it. We love well made pastries- buttery croissants are a morning favorite. And homemade cookies and cupcakes are not scarce, because after all, there is nothing more rewarding than brining pure satisfaction to my sweet family of boys! Although I cherish their growing appreciation for good food, I am equally focused on good fuel for their active and growing bodies. So, to balance this act, I’ll insist on certain daily rituals- one being nutrient packed smoothies. I’ve formulated pretty accurate recipes that everyone loves, which are secretively chock full of vitamins and antioxidants strengthening their shield and fueling my maternal need to control! It’s a win all around.

Green Smoothie- (all organic ingredients) half banana, 1/2 cup frozen mango, 1/2 cup frozen pineapple, huge handful of frozen kale spinach, 1/2 avocado, 1 cup or coconut water or green tea.

Pink Smoothie- 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup frozen raspberries, large handful kale or spinach, 1/2 avocado, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 cup of milk or oj.

My husband prefers his made with milk and almond butter for an extra boost of protein.

These two cookbooks are my go-to’s! Nigella offers perfectly delicious comfort food recipes… while Gwenyth’s approach reminds us that the food is spiritual, healing and should create a rich experience in life.

TUNE OF THE WEEK: Space Oddity, David Bowie
COMFORT OF THE WEEK: Restoration Hardware faux fur blanket, stay tuned for nesting blog!
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In With New

My new design board with color, texture and small goods to inspire! Brought to you by Susie Shapiro Aesthetic Design.

Read on my friends- like, share, and comment for more!

Escaping The Blues

Stuck in post-holiday exhaustion with a touch of the blues,  questioning what comes next, I’m inspired to grab on tight to the good old stand-by… s-t-y-l-e!

In my home, we have just packed up the mega mounds of sparkle, unearthed holiday treasures, flannel and plaids, jolly porcelain Santa cookie jars, mysteriously angry nut racking soldiers and in my typical January state of mind I am ready for a cleanse and simplification of life.

My last blog was nearly 7 months ago. I wrote about “disconnecting” in order to feel the meaning of life, acknowledging what surrounds us night and day.  A magical (and somewhat draining) time of year is inches behind us,  so let’s dive into a new chapter.  A chapter that will fill our hearts and surround us with  magnificent  warmth… and in good style.

Here are my top picks for encouraging a setting where my friends and family can devise culinary delights and set plans for a season of socializing and living each day with fullness.

New fav red: Fat Monk Pinot Noir. Because finding your seasonal wine is priority.

New from Beauty Counter- Opal lipgloss gives a natural and chic touch. And nothing says style like glossy lips.

While Passing Time

Lately I’ve been feeling a huge desire to live more simply.  This is a shift for me, seems as most of my adult life has been about creating more, planning more and yes, wanting more. Coming into Spring, I’m taking stock in what the little things do for me.  How hiking trails bursting with life ignite most of my senses, naturally.  I’m relishing the time shared with my family doing nothing- just sitting amongst natural beauty, wrapped under a blanket in the evening, listening to crickets and wind-blown trees.  Feeling the warmth on our skin, smelling the blossoms bursting, grass sprouting and sun-kissed cedar during the long hours of daylight.  And of course, noticing all the brilliant hues overlapping and radiating life from every direction.

It may be that age moves us into a less materialistic phase.  Or perhaps when one is satisfied, less is more. Either way, I like it.  And nothing is more gratifying than opening windows wide and filling every room with cuttings from nature, without pulling out our wallets. Suddenly, the littlest things bring immense pleasure. Can we lose technology for just a little while?  Just sit by candlelight outdoors in the evening unplugged. Reconvene come September to gauge how we are surviving. My guess is with a little help from the people close to us and through our everyday experiences, big and small, we can be reminded of who we are.

Gifts from both nature and pleasures from craftsman around the continent, here are some little things that are making a rather large impact in my family:

There is great satisfaction in creating such a happy treat at home. And what joy a healthy yogurt popsicle for breakfast brings a child in the morning!

Late May marks the beginning of a luscious cutting season in Maine. From exploding arrangements vibrant in color, to one simple delicate branch, a home can be refreshed with such ease.

I have a refined appreciation for fine textiles because of my mom (I’m a proud daughter of the luxurious crib linen designer Lulla Smith)! Handcrafted blankets are lavish to wrap up in outside on a springtime evening. Above (left to right): Brahms Mount, Swan Island, Lulla Smith.

We all need sun protection, so why not go safe, non-toxic and moisturizing (Beautycounter All-Over Sunscreen)- it just feels good.  Similarly, a high-end candle,  sets the ambience on a sreenporch  for those long lazy evenings.

Tune of the week- Vampire Weekend, “Step.”

Don’t you just love summer?  What are your favorite little things?  I welcome you to comment, share and like!