Thursday, November 12, 2009

Top 2010 Living Room Design Trends...


I was reading up on 2010 interior design trends from Associated Content this morning - it's always fun to get a sneak peek of what’s on the horizon in the world of fashion and interior design! Although most don’t exactly “follow” the latest trends in design, as maybe one would with fashion, it can be fun to update a living room or bedroom every now and then just by switching out a couple of pillows or bringing in a new coffee table. Here’s what you can expect to see in the stores, magazines, etc. for the top 2010 Living Room Trends:


- Tribal prints for curtains and slipcovers

- Distressed leather ottomans- Vintage coffee tables

- Antique tapestries- Black and white color palettes- Stacked boxes as room dividers

- Textiles with painted African landscapes and wildlife

- Rich, earthy color tones for rugs

- Antique lamps

- Distressed wallpaper patched onto walls

- Simple, understated sofas and chairs with clean lines and minimal detailing

- Modular furniture for limited spaces

- Curvy couches

- Oversized floor pillows in bright green, yellow, bold red and hippie inspired designs

- Eco-friendly chairs and slipcovers

- Bright colored sofas (think red, green or yellow) complemented by neutral-colored pillows


"The days of Asian inspired prints and eclectic furnishings are giving way to a fresh lineup of décor and accessories for the living room. From antique tapestries to vintage accessories, 2010 is the year to add some globally-inspired pieces to the mix and be creative with '60s-inspired décor and furnishings. Consider updating your living room with some of the above color palettes, designs, themes and accessories for the fresh new year ahead." (above information and quote from the Article written by Sabah Karimi).


What are your thoughts about the upcoming trends? What are some of your favorite "timeless" trends? I plan on exploring several of these trends for future blog posts! (top photo via House Beautiful).

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Rooms with a "Wow" Factor!

I'm slightly obsessed with bright, bold and colorful spaces...it takes a lot of courage to take the leap and paint the walls an electric yellow or turquoise color or to use a loud wallpaper pattern to really make a statement. All of these rooms have an element of that "wow" factor - the thing that makes a room unforgettable...whether it's unforgettable in a good way or bad way...it's what makes a space stand apart from the rest. Notice all of the obvious or subtle details that make each of these rooms memorable. What do you love the most? What are some of your favorite accents or details?















PHOTO CREDITS: CANADIAN HOUSE & HOME

Monday, November 9, 2009

Quote of the Week

"The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned."







Friday, November 6, 2009

Not Your Grandma's Wall Tapestries...

I love visiting the Rug Company website from time to time for inspiration. They offer such innovative and gorgeous collections of rugs, pillows, and wall hangings and have a wonderful roomsets and inspiration gallery. I rounded up some fantastic wall tapestries that are a refreshing new take on the heavy old traditional tapestries one might envision when hearing the word! Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend!

ACTIVE RESISTANCE by Vivienne Westwood

HOME SWEET HOME in needlepoint

HE LOVES ME by Suzanne Sharp


JUBILEE by Lucinda Chambers



LOVE by Paul Smith


FANTASTIC JOURNEY by Fiona Curran



LOVE TOO by Paul Smith


ADVENTURE by Vivienne Westwood

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Fun and Affordable Holiday Gifts!

Can you believe Christmas is only about 7 weeks away?! Don't procrastinate this year - get your shopping done early! I've rounded up some fabulous gift ideas from my online shop, modern chic home, that are fun, affordable and unique. I'll be posting more gift idea round-ups from my shop in the coming weeks. To kick off your holiday shopping, I'm offering all of you dear belle maison readers 10% off your purchase! Receive free shipping on orders over $100, always. Thank you for your continued support of my blog - I appreciate it very much! Happy Shopping :)


the jute butterfly tote makes a great gift for just about anyone - use to tote books, groceries, day trip traveling and much more! available in (4) different styles.

the wedding day apron is perfect for a december bride-to-be or newlyweds!


this adorable jewelry stand makes the perfect gift for the jewelry junkie! king and queen metal crown hooks make great "stocking stuffers" or a fun "his and her" couples gift.

peace guest towels make a great gift!


the petite bon voyage map journal can easily fit in a purse or tote;
pages made from 100% recycled paper.


Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Styling Bookshelves

Today I'm sharing some fabulous ideas on how to organize and style bookshelves. I discovered all of these wonderful photos via Real Simple. There are so many clever and easy ways to make the most of your bookcase or shelving. The goal is for your shelves to be functional as well as stylish and put together.

I love the idea of layering empty frames of all sizes in a bookcase or on a mantle. If you have any old / unused picture frames, spray paint them with a fresh coat of color for an instant new look.

Another way to add interest and make the objects on your shelves stand out is to paint the background an accent color. I like how they've grouped together a collection of white vases and fun shaped glasses.

Colorful boxes keep this cabinet organized and stylish.

Fill a jar with seashells or any other found object and use as a bookend.

Display a collection of clocks, globes, etc. alongside stacks of neutral books.

A clever way to disguise your bookshelves by hanging simple fabric panels.

Create different heights by stacking books on their sides as well as arranging them upright. Mix in different objects such as boxes, bowls, etc.

I love all of the funky letters mixed in with books and interesting objects.

The deep teal accent paint looks fresh and makes the colorful books really pop.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Quote of the Week

“Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say,
and not giving a damn.”


- Gore Vidal







Friday, October 30, 2009

Black & Orange Interiors

Happy Halloween! This is just a quick post filled with interiors designed around black and orange color schemes. I think the first photo is my favorite! I want that chandelier!!! What's everyone doing for Halloween? If you're dressing up, what are you going to be? I still need to figure out my costume...nothing like waiting til the last minute! Have a fun and safe weekend :)













PHOTO CREDITS: HOUSE TO HOME & LIVING, ETC.