Add Some Glitz and Sparkle to Your Home.

Most of us have heard of the idea that every great room needs "jewelry" just as every great outfit does. I couldn't agree more. I love adding sparkle in varying amounts wherever I can. The room above is from Ochre. Their beautiful custom chandelier compliments the muted colors and matte finishes.

Above:1.Coco Mirror from Ochre 2.Barstool and Lamp from Mondo Cane
Above and below are a few examples of a modern take on sparkle for a room.
Below: Design by M Design Group

If your style is more classic, check out the fabulous room from Albert Pinto. An amazingly talented designer, Pinto balances many types of finishes that result in a luxurious yet inviting room. Below are pieces I love that would give some glamor to almost any room.
1.Lamp from Paris Hotel Boutique 2.Chair from Oly Studios 3.Painted sideboard from Jimmie Martin

Cool Finds: Frou Frou Umbrella

Christmas time is here and winter is approaching, so I decided to post about an outdoor umbrella? I know my timing is off, but look at this thing. Who cares what time of year it is! Well, in some parts of the world it actually is summer time right?

This is the Frou Frou umbrella, made by Sywawa. It is made from a raffia type material, that sways gently in the wind as you dine underneath it. I can picture myself in an old Italian movie, drinking espresso, and living La Dolce Vita. All the while I am actually sitting at a computer with a whining toddler, and living La Vida Loca. Oh well, one can dream.

Arriverderci!

Home Girls Website.

Just a quick update. I have added a link to Home Girls new website.You can click here, or on the Home Girls name in the prior post.


12/10 Update: I'm sad to say that this beloved shop, is no longer open:(

Austin TX: Shopping

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This is the last set of Austin photos. I am including a few of the places I always enjoy visiting. I did not enough time to catch all the places I like , so I might have more Austin shopping at another time. The first store is Home Girls. I first discovered this store earlier this year and have become quite smitten with it. It is filled with many refurbished vintage finds. You can find funky furniture and very fun accessories. Several of their displays were done by Alyson Fox, (I'm sure many of you bloggers are familiar with her work). The clever displays give the store a bit of an art gallery feel.

Home Girls is owned by mother and daughter, Sarah and Kathryn Blanchard. I have conversed with both ladies on my visits, and they are both very warm and friendly. Ironically, I found out that they were included in Lucky magazine's list of " The Best Stores in Texas." Had I received my copy of Lucky, I would have known this. You can check out the list here. I guess its good to know that Lucky and I are in agreement.

If gardening is more your taste, their are a couple of nurseries that you must see. Gardens is the first. It is included in Lucky's list also,(P.S. the list also included Raye, here in Houston: that I mentioned in my Brasil post). Stepping into the Nursery is a real treat for the senses. All the colors, fragrances, and textures are very inspiring. I also love their charming store. It houses unique home accessories, bath and body products, and gardening supplies. Overall the plants and accessories they sell, go hand in hand with modern homes.

The final location is another nursery called Big Red Sun. It is located in east Austin, which has become a very funky and creative part of town. What I love about this nursery is that they don't just sell plants but they make plants into art. Their landscaping and floral arrangements will blow you away. Check out both of these nurseries websites by clicking on their names.