My little guy is now two and loves to draw (or I should say scribble!) and I am so sentimental, I find myself saving handfuls of them. There is something so sweet about all the bold crayon marks and messy paint. It made me remember a fabulous NYC townhouse project I worked on ages ago as a junior designer. My boss framed a dozen pieces of art from the clients young children and we arranged them up a staircase - the effect brought color and happiness into a forgotten space, brilliant! So I went on the hunt for more inspiration. . . I am sold and love the juxtaposition of seeing children's projects hung as fine art. What do you think? 

{images via}

Style Crush: Lauren Liess Design

Ever since I first spotted her work in Domino years ago, I have had a serious style crush on Virginia based designer Lauren Liess. I love her fresh, modern take on classic design and how she can make a traditional interior both family friendly and a bit eclectic.  I think this home in New Jersey is perfect example - it is so elegant without feeling stuffy or overdone. Like those indigo slipcovers - which are a brilliant and vibrant way to reuse client's chairs and protect them from spills.  

 

This chic toddlers room is my favorite. Rich ebony walls and a fun custom canopy transform the room instantly!

{all images via Lauren Liess}

Boys Will Be Boys: A Playful Nursery in Gray and Orange

We just found out that some of our dearest friends are having a baby boy! They love a hit of warm, bright color so I am dreaming of a color scheme of gray, orange, white and wood with a bit of blue. I think this would be playful and sweet but still sophisticated. Babies grow up fast, so a room they can grow with is essential I think. Plus Mom and Dad are spending plenty of time in here too, so it should be adult friendly as well! 

Here is a bit of inspiration . . .  I can't wait to meet Baby R in just a few months! 

I love this layering of pattern - chic but still sweet.

 I love the idea of a gray and white striped wall! I have substituted wall decals for paint in the past and it turned out beautifully {and is a much more rental friendly option.}

{via}

E-Decorating: A Fresh & Functional Living Room

Here is a quick peak at an e-decorating project I did this past week. I love a challenge and I had the best time giving this living room a bright update! I aimed to create a space that was beautiful and sophisticated, as well as functional and easy to maintain {after all the family has two small boys!} Durability was a key factor, so I selected finishes which will wear really well, like the metal coffee table and indoor-outdoor area rug. The space also doubles as a dining space and home office, so smart and efficient storage was also a priority. 

I suggested a warm owl gray for the wall color to instantly freshen and lighten the space. The overall color scheme of grays, chocolate brown, light blue and whites with a few pops of teal and yellow creates a room that is playful and welcoming as well as a bit grown up! 

Here is tiny look at the 'before'. . . as you can see there no such thing as too much storage! 

I hope you love the new designs KK and I can't wait to see the 'after' shots! 

If you would like to know the sources for any of the pieces above, you can find all the links here.

Happy Friday Everyone!