Obsession of the day: Barn doors...

I think barn doors are lovely structures. They are simple, rustic, at times industrial and totally charming in their own way. When added into a home, they are not only functional but also provide an eye catching focal point. 
No, I'm not suggesting you milk cows in your living room. Instead, try bringing a bit of the farm into your home with barn doors. You'll be surprised at how versatile they can be! The can be adapted into many styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. So why not bring some of those elements into your living space? 

Something's Gotta Give...

Have you ever watched a movie and found yourself completely distracted by the set decor? If you share my obsession with interior design, this has likely happened to you many times before. I watch movies and lose all focus on the storyline because I'm completely consumed by the interiors showcased on the screen. When this happens, it’s only a matter of time before I pause the movie, grab my laptop and start sourcing paint colors, fabrics and furniture used on set. And yes, for those of you still wondering, I have OCDD also known as Obsessive Compulsive Design Disorder.

When I first started this blog, I knew I would be highlighting my favorite movie sets but I had a really hard time choosing which house to start with. After much thought, I decided to go with my first love… 


A house that stole my heart and completely blew me away...  

The oh-so-perfect-in-every-way Hamptons beach cottage featured in Something’s Gotta Give.

Jon Hutman (who also worked on The Holiday) received an Oscar nomination for his Set Production of this now iconic movie house. He worked in collaboration with Beth Rubino, who was responsible for the set decoration. Pure genius.

Making modern comfortable...

I personally have a hard time with modern décor.  Even when well-executed, modern spaces often translate as cold, one-dimensional, flat and uninviting. When creating a modern space, keep room functionality in mind. If a living room doesn’t evoke feelings of warmth and relaxation, then it’s not fulfilling its primary function. When I think of modern, I often think of IKEA. Their furniture is trendy and affordable, usually clean lined and modular which is fine BUT add one too many IKEA products in one room and  I promise it will fall flat. 

The key to keeping modern comfortable is balance. 

Tame down your linear elements by introducing one of the following:

1- Texture: add a faux sheepskin rug, distressed wood table or textural wallpaper

2- Patterns: Add a hit of pattern on a few throw pillows, curtains or on a a single armchair 

3- Vintage finds: Head to your local flea market, find something cool and modify it! Old suitcases, chandeliers, side tables or frames can add interest into a room

4- Art: No need to spend tons of money here, simply print a few of  your favorite pictures, frame them and create an interesting arrangement on an accent wall. Try to think outside of the box, many of your favorite personal items or travel souvenirs can make great pieces of art.

5- Natural elements: Add flowers, rocks, seashells, elephant leaf, miniature topiaries or even driftwood in any space to make it more welcoming.

Summer Deckadence...

Designer of the week: Elsa Soyars...

I spend a substantial  amount of time surfing the net on what feels like an endless quest for  inspiring spaces. When I land on a picture I love, I immediately find out the designer’s name and check out their website. My hope is that their portfolio is as captivating and seamless as the initial image I fell in love with.  Although most of the time I’m totally disappointed, once in a blue moon I discover a designer whose body of work  is absolutely flawless. A few months ago, I fell upon one of these designers and it is my pleasure to highlight her career this week.

 Elsa Soyars has designed countless homes in the Hamptons and looking through her portfolio is like being granted access into the lavish summer homes of New York’s elite. The spaces she designs are elegant, cozy, classic and functional. Her use of sumptuous fabrics,  rich textures and bold patterns gives a signature look to every room she transforms.  

For any of you who enjoy the “beach chic” look as much as I do, I would like to point out that no one does it better than Elsa Soyars. 

I strongly encourage you to check out her website: www.elsasoyars.com 

But for the time being, here is a little taste of what you’ll see!