DESIGN CRUSH: TOBI FAIRLEY

June 10, 2010

The world of Interior Design is full of incredibly talented and inspiring designers, but now and then I come across a designer that takes my breath way. Right now, that designer is TOBI FAIRLEY. In 2009, Tobi was selected by Traditional Home Magazine as one of the Top 20 Young Designers in America. Tobi designs rooms that are classic and elegant, while at the same time comfortable and approachable. Her use of color is genius and they way she combines fabrics, finishes and textures is above and beyond. Here are a few of her Inspiring Spaces!

Tobi Fairley

I just love the combination of pink, chocolate-brown and the apple green. So refreshing!

What an impactful statement. The black backgrounds on the prints, along with the black sofa and white accents give Coastal a whole new appeal.

Don’t you just love this combination of orange and turquoise? This bedroom is relaxing and ooh so stylish!

Tobi has given the sitting area of this bedroom a modern and current vibe with the use of retro patterns, smooth finishes and bold color.

This living area is so classic yet the bold shade of green gives it a young, vibrant feel. The pattern Tobi chose for these chairs is so hip.

You can never do a room wrong by adding accents of red. This room is clean, chic and sophisticated!

Thanks Tobi for the inspiration!

all images via Tobi Fairley

DESIGN CRUSH: SARAH RICHARDSON

May 10, 2010

Every since I started watching Design Inc., and Room Service, I’ve developed a major design crush on Canadian designer Sarah Richardson. She is just fabulous! There are so many things I admire about Sarah, but first and foremost is her innovative approach to design. While she does use some signature elements in the rooms she designs (button closure pillows), she always designs rooms that incorporate a little something fresh and unexpected. I love that she shops flea markets both to save money and to find unique pieces; I love that she is always repurposing items versus throwing them away; I love that her shows include the inevitable problems that arise on a project and that she shows us how to solve the problem; I love her eye for fabrics, and if that wasn’t enough, I absolutely love all the adorable clothes and jewelry she wears. For me, Sarah is one of my interior design and fashion idols.

Sarah Richardson

This is one of the lovely dining rooms designed by Sarah. The dark wood is beautifully set off with the mirrored console, crystal chandelier and teal wallpaper.

Sarah designed this living room with an understated color palette so that the subtle details like the striped wallpaper, gridded ceiling, silk drapes and damask sofa were the stars.

Just a few of the custom pillows Sarah has designed for her projects!

Dining chairs with a customize fabric application.

You can check out Sarah’s custom furniture line on her website.

Sarah’s new line of paint colors is available at Lowe’s!

As a added bonus to watching Sarah’s design shows, I have also gotten to love and admire her “design sidekick” Tommy Smythe.

Tommy is an incredible designer in his own right, has an effervescent personality and is so warm and witty. Just another good reason to watch Sarah Richardson.

Untill next time…

all images via Sarah Richardson Design

DOUBLE TAKE

February 25, 2010

In the world of decorating, two is sometimes better than one. These spaces are more beautiful and distinct because of the double exposure of furnishing and accessories.

What piece of furniture or accessory would you love to have two of?

Photos: Coastal Living (1,2,3) Southern Living (4), Markham Roberts (5), Cottage Living (6,7)

SLEEPING BEAUTY

February 16, 2010

When it comes to decorating, a bedroom can be one of my biggest design challenges. While it is easy to infuse luxury through plush linens and pillows, or by painting the walls a soothing color, I am often challenged with creating a space that is truly personal, full of style and totally functional. Here are a few of my inspired spaces.

I hope your resting place is all you want it to be!

A toned down color statement gives this bedroom a luxurious and elegant feel. The patterns, texture and attention to detail add so much character!

The rich tones used in this bedroom are so inviting…I just want to jump under the covers and drift off to sleep!

Who ever said white is not a color was surely mistaken. This bedroom is so peaceful and serene. The washed and weathered finishes are just as comforting as an afternoon nap on a rainy day!

Black and white with a pop of color. I just adore the hot pink accent in this black and white bedroom. The monogrammed pillow makes the space personal and intimate. The leather ottoman, being used as a night stand, is extra stylish with the addition of the silver tray and crystal lamp.

The guest bedroom says Come, Sit, Relax! The oversized headboard makes a grand statement and I love the addition of the accent chairs at the foot of the bed. The is one bedroom that is a bit rustic, but very refined!

Pretty in Pink! This bedroom looks like it was plucked from a fine hotel. The soft pink palette mixed with black and white is sophisticated and playful at the same time. I think the drapes add softness without taking away from the bed and the monogrammed nightstand is oh so chic!

LIGHT UP MY LIFE

February 14, 2010

I am helping a friend do some re-decorating and in our search for new lamps, I was just wowed at all the incredibly stylish light fixtures on the market today. Check out some of our great finds.