
Photo Credit: Calico Wallpaper
Over the last two years we have seen various patterns pop up in fashion and home décor that are reminiscent of marble and watercolor paintings. Trend watchers have forecast numerous times that it will be the biggest trend of the year, and yet it never seems to make a huge splash. Cool patterns pop-up and then it’s gone. But this year seems to be different. Hand-marbling and various manipulated ink patterns are popping up in more luxurious designs – a sign that they are here to stay. At the 2015 New York Design Week last month, marbleized and hand-dyed patterns were found in furnishings, décor, fabric and artwork. During the 2014 & 2015 fashion weeks in Paris, London and New York, various designers used fabrics covered in brushstrokes, ink-blots and watercolors. And in the makers & artisan scene, marbleizing or hand-marbling has become the latest experimental craze.
One of the reasons the marble pattern hasn’t exploded in years past is the patterns were too literal. The faux marble look has been done, and each time it has looked cheap and awkward. And for the watercolor effect, the colors and style have been a bit immature. The key is to either keep it simple and use the real material/or style, or reinvent the pattern into something completely new. This year I am finally seeing a new creation – lyrical, abstract patterns with natural movement made from a mixture of marble patterns, ink manipulation, and hand-dying. And of course, the real deal is being used in furnishings and home decor as well. Beautiful white Carrera Italian Marble in tables, shelves, dressers and home accessories. Many of them paired with brass hardware and it is absolutely stunning.
What about the geometric patterns and cut-outs we saw trending earlier this year? This is where it gets exciting. The biggest trend of all is the juxtaposition of hard-line geometric patterns paired with blurred organic movement. So be on the lookout! The marbleizing and painterly watercolor trend is already trickling in. And come fall, we are going to see a whirlwind of pattern play.
CERAMIC DINNERWARE & DECOR: Tortoise Marbled Dinnerware by Tao Oudomvilay, The Gradient Vase by Leif, Modern Black and White Teapot & Cups by RK Ceramics, Rose and Gold Swirl Plates by Suite One Studio, Belay Dinnerware by CB2, Blue Ebru Marble Ceramics by Simple Life Instanbul, Botticino Marble Coasters by Anthropologie



FURNISHINGS: Surf Coffee Table by Worlds Away, Anne Marble Dresser by Steven Shell, Marble & Brass Wall-Mounted Shelf by CB2, Elke Side Table by Crate & Barrel


AREA RUGS & WALL FINISHES: Night Slate by Calico Wallpaper, Marble Wall by Kelly Wearstler, Marble Rock Zebra Rug by Lulu & Georgia, Droplet Rug by Michelle Weinberg, Banshee Rug by Surya


PILLOWS & LAMPS: Marble Cushions by Ferm Living, Marble Cascade Pillow by CB2, Carrera Italian Marble Holiday Rose Pillow by Society6, Casa Bonita Indigo Pillow by Scout & Catalogue, Flynn Lamp by Arteriors, Swirl Orange Table Lamp by Safavieh



DIY: Marbleized Ribbon by Oh Happy Day and Marbleized Paper by A Beautiful Mess


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Photo Credit: Ted Baker London
Need an inspiration pick-me-up? Here’s a collection of Summer Pinterest finds I created for 12th and Broad earlier this month. From exotic hotels in Panama to tulip fields in Holland, this collection will awaken your senses and have you planning multiple summer vacations. Enjoy!
Tatler UK Balloons by Luis Monteiro

Recently I stumbled upon a photoshoot by Tatler Magazine and photographer, Luis Monteiro. The composition and colors in these photos are quite stunning – they are the essence of summer bliss, European excursions and care-free fashion. I’m thinking oversize balloons is a must for my next party.
Alfred Coffee

Who is Alfred? Alfred is a delightful coffee shop in Melrose, California. The ultra-chic café is in a renovated 1925 ballroom-dance facility. The design of the space is warm, yet striking with its high-contrast colors of black, white and turquoise. This is where the cool kids go to be seen, and to find some serious inspiration.
American Trade Hotel – Panama

A collaboration of Ace Hotel and Commune Design, the American Trade Hotel is an elegant mixture of mid-century designs and classic styles of Panama. The hotel sits in the town’s main square Plaza Herrera, and looks as though it has been there for centuries. An incredible example of innovative design and historical preservation.
Park Residence – Palm Springs

Park Residence is a contemporary mid-century style home with a sexy exterior – black and white with bold notes of saffron yellow, and lush tropical plants. This home has curb appeal that likely has the whole neighborhood in envy.
Jalapeno Watermelon

“Fresh, sweet watermelon puree, lime juice, Triple Sec, and jalapeno-infused tequila make these Jalapeno Watermelon Margaritas super summery and delightful.” Yes please! This is going to be my go-to drink this summer. Spicy, sweet, refreshing and enough alcohol to forget your daily woes.
Lombardi House

One of my favorite event spaces that I follow on Instagram. A beautiful Victorian farmhouse in the heart of Hollywood, California. Oh the events that take place here! Each one more splendid than the last. An all-white space with simple industrial black fixtures, lots of windows and lovely architecture.
Iris Apfel

Who doesn’t love Iris? This woman has been charming the world for decades with her iconic style and care-free attitude. I adore all her crazy colors and patterns, but her tropical blue attire in the One Kings Lane feature, has me smitten. Her documentary, Iris, is currently playing at the Belcourt. Don’t miss it!
Mid-century Renovation – Portland

A brilliant 1950’s Portland home renovated to its original glory. Multiple windows and doors, allowing nature and the interior to be one unifying space. One of my favorite features of this home is the use of dark paint on the exterior. The dark color is a striking contrast to the natural elements surrounding the home, and showcases the architecture beautifully.
Tulip Fields – Holland

Bri Emery has been on a six week inspiration vacation in Europe. She’s scouring various cities for new ideas, products, designs and an overall refresh of the mind. One of my favorite photos thus far is the tulip fields in Holland. Follow her travels here.
Top 10 Green Plants for the Body and Soul

Norwegian blogger Marianne de Bourg, gives great tips on how indoor plants can help you have a healthier home. She provides 10 excellent plants that are both beautiful and beneficial to your health.
Taroudant Morocco – The Colors of A French Designers House

Layers of dusty pinks, blush, peachy-cream and vibrant shades of verdant green, all under one roof. This home pairs these colors in way that almost seems magical. An exotic mixture of Moroccan and French designs that is quite captivating.
Threefold Restaurant – Melbourne

A distinctively charming restaurant that emphasizes servery and fresh food in their design concept. The restaurant has a wonderful mixture of eat-in kitchen and high-style café, creating a warm and inviting environment. Simple, yet decadent – the perfect place to spend an entire afternoon.
How to Compost

I know what you are thinking. How can composting be inspiring? Pretty Handy Girl has a darling blog post on how and why you should compost. The post is so cute, you’ll likely forget that she is talking about garbage and worms.
DIY Vanilla Orange Mint Sugar Scrub

A delicious concoction of summer scents that remind creator, Ashley Rose, of a blissful day in Hawaii. Not only is the recipe divine, her photos are equally luscious. Excellent prop-styling that evokes summer in the tropics. I especially love the combination of the vivid orange, pinks and greens with the soft off-white sugar scrub.
Alys Beach Home by Dungan Nequette

Have you been to Alys Beach? If you haven’t, you are most definitely missing out. Located on the magnificent 30A of the gulf coast, Alys Beach is a gorgeous all-white planned community with stunning architecture and landscapes. One of my favorite homes in this area is the home designed by the talented Dungan Nequette. It’s breathtakingly beautiful with its grand Bermudan exterior and luxurious interior details. Click through the photos and be prepared to be wowed.
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I’ve been on a green kick lately. Specifically, emerald green. I’ve been implementing the color into so many of my current designs and I just adore it. It’s vibrant, unexpected and has so much classic appeal. A win-win in my book.
My dear friend, Audra Harvey, and I were discussing how perfect a vibrant green goes with grays, blacks and whites. And how lovely it is to use a bold color that is strong but not overwhelming. After our discussion, I moved my black-white entry rug into the dining room and decided to finally paint my dining table base emerald green. I have had the perfect green paint for two years, and a million Pinterest photos screaming for me to take the green plunge. And yet, I just couldn’t get myself to do it. What can I say, I have commitment issues when it comes to my home. ha! But when I saw the black and white contrast in the gray room, I knew I had the perfect opportunity to use a bright green. After painting one section of the table, I was smitten. My only regret is, I wish I had done it sooner.
Photos via Sage Atelier, Intimate Weddings, Burberry, Traditional Home, Domaine Home, Apartment Therapy, Honestly WTF, Brabbu, Enter My Attic
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A new season means new colors, patterns and textures. This past month I have been scouring magazines, blogs and design websites for color inspiration. Now that spring has finally sprung, I am feeling a pull to use new colors in my designs, as well as in my wardrobe. I love the combination of moody vintage shades and bold rich colors of the Mediterranean in this years Pantone color selection. The colors are reminiscent of the 1940-60’s, and summer travels to places like Paris, Marrakech, London and the Amalfi Coast. Just a day in these lovely colors and I am dreaming of all the ways to bring the romantic past into the present.
So what are my favorite colors for this season? Lucite Green, Deep Coral, Dusty Pinks, Tangerine, Mediterranean Blues and Golden Yellows.
Photo Sources (in order): Escape Button Blog, Celine Marks, Vogue Russia, Fashion Gone Rogue, Burnetts Board, Shop Ruche, Ruffled Blog, Pinterest, Erik Madigan Heck, Blog2Modern-Kustaa Saksi, Pinterest, Vogue-Ellie Saab
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Photo via Domino
As previously stated, I am not keen on this years Pantone Color of the Year – Marsala. Described as “a naturally robust and earthy wine red”, this color is stuck somewhere between the renaissance era and Sedona, AZ. (I feel dizzy just thinking about that connection). The color is a bit confusing. And maybe that’s why I have been hesitant about using the color in home decor. I can’t really place where it came from or where it should go.
But today I read Decor8’s post 8 Ways to Decorate With Marsala: Pantone Color of the Year 2015. And surprisingly, I just might get on board with this unique shade of red. Holly Becker’s photo’s and tips were very insightful, and I enjoyed her fresh perspective. I’m still not fond of Marsala, but I could see that if used in moderation, it could be quite lovely. So check out the post and tell me what you think.
Is this years Pantone color a yay or nay?
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