I was just discussing velvet sofas with a close friend here in Singapore. I adore the lush, inviting look of velvet sofas {no design dilema there!} but what about in a tropical climate? The extra hot and humid weather can really limit your design options here at times. I rounded up some inspirational images that visually lend themselves to warmer locations and look great but what about the feel? I think I might prefer linens and cottons only for Singapore - it's just so sticky! {well, maybe if we keep the air con on and the doors shut!} 

What do you think, can velvet work when it's hot year round? 

I especially love the rich depth of color and texture this indigo sofa in the 1st image brings! 

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House Tour: Marjorie Skouras

For those of you who missed it, I had to share the eclectic home of lighting designer Marjorie Skouras {I lusted over her amazing semi-precious stone chandeliers yesterday!} Her L.A. home was featured in Apartment Therapy recently and gave us a sneak peak into her creative mind . . . such dramatic, unexpected, color soaked, playful interiors! 

Certainly a bit quirky! It so amazing to see the homes of artists - wonderful to see their creative process via an interior. I just love the slate gray exterior with those mossy green canopies! 

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Lust Worthy Lighting: Beaded Chandeliers

Sometimes one piece just makes a whole space! And these amazing beaded stone chandeliers by Marjorie Skouras certainly qualify! Painstakingly constructed with strings of semi-precious stone beads or naturally formed coral, these light fixtures are just stunning. I adore the bolt of color they bring! So often lighting is treated as an afterthought but these chandeliers prove that they can be a true centerpiece. The turquoise fixture is the most popular but I love the cobalt and coral red one just as much! 

Sigh . . . sooo pretty, maybe one day! And if you are feeling really crafty and adventurous, there is an amazingly creative DIY on Gus + Lula!

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I love to see the juxtaposition of the traditional with the modern! For me, this is really what dynamic and beautiful interiors are all about - the pairing of contrasting styles. Here, a formal sitting room is given a lively new energy with a bold and unexpected color palette. The architecture of the space and furniture forms could have led to a stuffy room but the use of soothing aqua, vibrant yellow, and bold pink creates a welcoming and casual space! Do you think it works?

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Spring Floral Pretties

After yesterday's post on a pop of pink, I have flowers on the brain! I am so inspired by the colors and textures of these florals - my favorites are the lushest, most wild looking arrangements! Hope you enjoy them as much as I do . . . .

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Pop of Pink

One of my favorite things about Singapore is the masses of pink bougainvillea that is planted all around the city. Even down the middle of the freeway, on overpasses, or by the side of the road you can spot these lovely shocks of bright pink.  Bright pink can be a lot to take but in small bursts, well, it just makes me smile! 

I think that all white bath with the unexpected hot pink embroidered mat might even be my favorite! When tempered by lots of neutrals you just cant beat the lively energy of a bit of pink. Which image is your favorite?

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Love or Loathe? Birdcages as Decor

Birdcages are a vintage trend that is certainly new again! I am spotting birdcages as decor a lot these days. I recently found these lovely wooden birdcages above for a client and love how they work in the tropical setting of Singapore, they also fit perfectly on top of an antique armoir and add lots of visual interest. But what do you think . . . do birdcages make beautiful decor or just look old fashioned?

I adore the idea of painting plain cages a bold hue! And they make especially beautiful centerpieces as well - how fun to have flowers and branches spilling out of one! 

Happy Tuesday Everyone!