Current Inspiration: Buttoned Up Bohemian

There are some designers that do bohemian style really well.  And while I love that relaxed, chilled-out, hippie vibe (dude, I'm from California) my version of bohemian design is a bit more "buttoned up".  And, I think the unexpected mix of boho and super traditional is where it's at.  :)  Think fancy, glossy, traditional furniture and tailored upholstery mixed with eclectic textiles and natural elements like horn, seagrass and animal hide.  The combo tends to feel relaxing, unpretentious, and a little easy-breezy (as any bohemian vibe should), but the unexpected element of "fancy" makes the space feel a little more polished.

I just finished a project for a local Philadelphia client, and the vibe was very much "buttoned up bohemian".  So, these are some of the inspiration images that are covering my desk this week.  I love how these rooms seem to tell a story.  Such an interesting mix...

 Nathan Turner

 Betsy Burnham

Betsy Burnham

 

Nathan Turner

Kristen Panitch

 Kristen Panitch

 Kristen Panitch

Kristen Panitch

 

Thom Felicia

 

Thom Felicia

 

Peter Dunham

Thom Felicia

I think the trick to achieving this look is by combining textures and finishes, adding layers of pattern, and unexpected shots of color.  Here is a modified version of that design board from my recent presentation (with a few links down below)...

master bedroom - 

modern brass lamp / bone tray / mirror (similar) / sconces / side table / bed / bedding / Moroccan side table / zebra pillow / bench / floor lamp / vintage rug (similar)

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Kristen Panitch

I'm working with a new design client on a smallish project in downtown Philadelphia.  My client's style is fabulous and she came to me with a handful of inspiration images (all inspiring and beautiful).  I'm calling it "polished eclectic" where things are perfectly tailored, buttoned up and organized... but, there must be some balance of eclectic materials, texture and overall personality. 

Anyway, a few of the images came from Los Angeles based designer, Kristen Panitch.  All I can say is, HAVE I BEEN LIVING UNDER A ROCK?  Kristen Panitch.  This woman is insanely talented.  Come to find out, some of my own all time favorite images (for the design of my own home, especially) have come from her portfolio.  So, it turns out, I am VERY FAMILIAR with her work, but I've been too aloof to realize it.  So, get your "PIN IT" buttons ready, ladies.  Because these pictures are extremely pin-worthy.  :)

This particular project (Kristen calls "Latimer Road") should be called, "Kelly's Dream House."  Just look-- the mix of antique and new, the fantastic color scheme, and the traditional architecture.  Amazing.

If that's not enough, take a gander at some of Kristen's other projects....

Gorgeous, right?  For even more inspiration, check out her stunning portfolio HERE.

Happy Wednesday!

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Powerful Neutral

I'm currently working on the design of a formal living room for some local clients here in Philadelphia.  The color scheme is really edited (think bright white + vanilla + tan + black).  All of the drama lies within the mix of textures and finishes (my favorite).  The room itself is sleek yet traditional.  And, there is a ton of natural light.  It's a fun project.  :)

Here are some of the inspiration images for this job that are floating around my desk.  I love how each room feels classic/polished while still exuding a strong sense of unique personal style.  The color schemes are completely monochromatic, utilizing different shades of white, tan, and grey.  Yes, the rooms are neutral.  But, the effect is soft and yet really powerful, don't you think?  That's what we're going for here...

 

 

 

 

 

We'll be installing everything before Christmas, so I hope to share some images on the blog around January.

*all pictures and credits via Pinterest, follow me here*

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