Today I am having a major style crush on playfully bold designer Angie Hranowsky. Her self described 'relaxed modern interiors' are so chic but also so lively, with an eye on both the past and the future. And of course, who can deny her amazing sense of color? This Charleston, South Carolina home was built circa 1850 but is a rental for Hranowsky's family. I love the classic architectural details combined with the quirky collection of art and rich palette of purples, blues and pinks. While perhaps a bit too bold for some of us, I love the vibrant energy this home exudes and it certainly inspires a bit of daring in me!   

I think Hranowsky is a genius at hanging and placing art - I love the unexpected places pieces pop up and the gallery style stacks hug almost to the floor. Another tip from the designer (which I fully agree with!) is to splurge for custom window treatments for key rooms even in a rental, here mostly roman shades. The warmth and personalized feel they add can be well worth it! 

{via Lonny}

Merry Christmas from SGP!

We are having a really lovely, quiet Christmas just me and my husband here in sunny Singapore. I do love that our Christmas Eve tradition can involve a drink by the pool, but I have to admit I certainly miss the cold a bit too! {Oh the grass is always greener!} Here a few wintry holiday images I am swooning over and also a few of our warm weather celebration here! 

Decorating our real tree! 

{The poor guy is not loving the heat and already is turning brown!}

I also made Irish soda bread for the first time - a family tradition for my hubby. It was a success! 

I hope you are all having a wonderful day filled with family and loved ones. 

XOXO Merry Christmas!

Designer Tip: Making Silver Modern

Most of us wait for the holidays to break out the good silverware and family pieces. But I just love the sense of tradition and classic elegance that aged silver brings - so why not use it everyday? Vintage silver pieces can look a bit old fashioned, so here are 3 designer tips to help make these antiques feel fresh and modern even in a contemporary interior:

{1} Break it up! Mix silver in with different materials and finishes - I especially love the contrast with simple white ceramics or rustic and organic textures.

{2} Don't over polish. Let your silver show its patina and age! This also helps creates a look that is more layered than fancy.

{3} Repurpose it. It's so unexpected and fun to see classic forms used in a new way! 

Traditional tea trays in three lovely new ways! {So brilliant to use them as magnetic boards!}

A toast rack makes a perfect mail organizer! 

If you don't have family pieces, there are plenty of silver plate pieces at antique and resale shops - I love imaging the hidden histories of pieces I find. I recently picked up a silver tray for my perfume bottles at Hock Siong here in Singapore and I adore the bit of glam it adds to my countertop! 

S+B Style Crush: Tilton Fenwick Design

I have long had a major style crush on the young NYC based design firm Tilton Fenwick. Founded in 2010, they always create beautifully traditional interiors with a fresh and lively twist. I love their unique blend of classic, elegant pieces; vibrant, unexpected color palettes; and unexpected details! Each space is so warm yet so lively - I feel like I could move right in! See any details you love?

PS. The ladies at Tilton Fenwick have also recently release a lovely line of fabrics for Duralee and wallpapers too!

{Images via NY Times and Tilton Fenwick}

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

I always love Thanksgiving but this year it feels extra special. It is the first Thanksgiving in 4 years I have come back to celebrate in the US with my family, and I am feeling so happy and blessed to be with loved ones. Also, for the first time since 1888, Thanksgiving overlaps with Hanukkah! Here is a little inspiration - I especially adore the colorful, eclectic tabletop above . . . perfect for both holidays! 

 Wishing all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! 

{images via}