Quote of the Week

"I could never live without artwork. 

It’s a constant inspiration.”

- Narciso Rodriguez

IMAGE CREDITS: 1. ADORE HOME (P.68)  2. ADORE HOME (P.94)  3. ELLE DECOR; 4. OOPS-CAN'T REMEMBER...?!; 5. HOUSE BEAUTIFUL

Hello! Did you have a nice Easter and enjoy your weekend? I had a lovely time with my husband and family, but the weekend went by way too fast, as usual. Last week I was out of town for a few days, installing a couple of model homes with my former boss. That's what I did before starting my own business - I was a project manager for a design firm that specialized in designing model homes for new home builders. That was a dream job for a designer! We pretty much had complete creative freedom to design and execute our vision, as long as we stayed within budget. The best part was installing the job and seeing several months of designing and planning come to fruition. It's much more fast paced than residential design! Anyway, I'm heading out of town today until Wednesday to help install another job. On the go again... that's pretty much been my life for the last few months! Take care and have a wonderful week :) xoxo - Julie

Happy Friday!

I've been away on business most of the week and am running on empty at the moment, so today's post is going to be short and sweet! I've gathered together some lovely images from we heart it, and they're all centered around outdoor entertaining, which I can't wait to do once the weather warms up! Have a Happy Easter and enjoy the weekend. Cheers! xoxo - Julie

{ IMAGE CREDITS:1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6}

Deserving Design Makeover by Robert & Cortney Novogratz

This inspiring story was brought to my attention recently, which involves two of my favorite things: a makeover and giving back to those in need. Interior Designers Robert and Courtney Novogratz of SixxDesign recently completed a $50,000 school makeover in Orlando, Florida for a school that needed serious help. Their mission was to create a well-designed, organized and inspirational space for a K-5 public school, who were the winners of a nationwide contest sponsored by Bounty. "Winegard Elementary could not be more deserving of this transformation. Thanks to Bounty's commitment to providing children with creative, clean learning environments, we will be able to transform these classrooms to reflect the true spirit of the school," says Bob Novogratz, designer and Bounty spokesperson. "Consulting with our 'experts,' a.k.a. our seven children, we know the needs schools face and our hope is to help take the load off of these teachers so they can focus on what's most important, our kids' education." It looks like "mission accomplished" with the end result! What a fun, fresh and innovative environment for children to learn, create and flourish in their skills and talents! To learn more about Bounty and the "We Love Our School" campaign, visit www.Facebook.com/Bounty.

{IMAGE CREDITS: MATTHEW WILLIAMS}

Hot off the Press: Trad Home's Premiere Issue!

New online magazines have been springing up left and right, especially over the past year. Much of it has to do with the decline of beloved shelter magazines, many of which have been forced to fold because of, what else?... "the economy" (so over saying those words!). Last month I mentioned the exciting launch of yet another fabulous online read, Trad Home, which is a collaboration between Anne Maine, Editor in Chief of Traditional Home Magazine and Co-founders of Lonny Mag, Michelle Adams & Patrick Cline. This fabulous magazine has officially launched and the premiere issue is packed with 347 pages worth of design bliss! Personally, it's one of my favorites so far in the sea of online design magazines - clean layout, great variety of features and stories, and an overdose of eye candy (but in a good way). Take a look for yourself and let me know what you think!

{IMAGES COURTESY OF TRAD HOME | LONNY MAG}

Reader Snapshot: Fran's Living Room

Today's post features a fabulous living room submitted by belle maison reader Fran. In her email, Fran said, "I am a huge fan of belle maison, it's one of my very favorite interior design blogs! It has most definitely inspired me through the decorating process of my apartment...I've attached a photo of my living room..." I'm so happy to hear Fran's found inspiration for her home through my blog - that's why I do what I do  :) I love the fresh color palette and modern furniture style - everything flows nicely. I'd like to know what paint color she used for that fantastic accent wall?! The crisp white mirror, floating shelves and sconces really pop against the blue. And the fuchsia accent pillows and accessories add a little flair and excitement to the space. Thank you so much for sharing, Fran.  I'd love to see more reader's homes, so  please feel free to submit your own photos for consideration to be published on belle maison!

 {CLICK TO ENLARGE}

IMAGE CREDIT: FRAN S.

Quote of the Week

“Most people start out wanting to go for their fantasy, but end up painting their walls dove-white.”

— Rayman Boozer

IMAGE CREDITS: 1. KEVIN KELLY INTERIORS; 2.DECORPAD; 3. DORYN WALLACH; 4.TRAD HOME; 5. TRAD HOME

*****

I love this quote! It's a great reminder to "think big" when designing a space and to actually follow through with your vision. So many of us have amazing ideas in our heads, but when we try and execute them, we get scared and end up playing it safe. I say, just go for it and see what happens! I hope you enjoyed your weekend. Have a great Monday :) xoxo - Julie