Welcome Fall

Welcome Fall by jolene-k featuring Garden Trading

My Terrarium Obsession

  My terrarium love affair began with a quick click and a few glances on etsy.com. Etsy stores were selling all kinds of terrariums,most being diy kits. As I scrolled and gawked, I thought, finally, I can have my own little garden. Decorating on a miniature scale, I'm in love!

  When you live in an apartment, the idea of gardening doesn't really exist. Sure, you bring in plants to brighten up the place, but there's something artistic about miniature landscaping. Terrariums are so simple to put together. They can be altered, designed, to perfectly represent your inner escape to your garden of Eden.

All you need is:

• A miniature planet 
• A glass container
• Soil River stones
• Activated charcoal
• Moss Miniature things (people, rocks, etc.)

 They are easy to care for,depending on the plant. They are fun to put together, you can do it in less than an hour and they last for months. If you want to bring a little life, terrariums are a fun decorative way to go.

Courtesy- Twig Terrarium

The Fern and Mossery

Recently I had the joy of visiting Clinton NJ which is only 20 minutes away from where I live. Clinton is one of those towns you go to and think, this is just too darn cute. I love that there are lost of small businesses selling unigue things.Everything from wine to art to even a cute littles pharmacy.Clinton is defintely filled with a positive energy and an artistic vibe. But of course what caught my eye, was a cute little shop "Heart Strings" that sold everything that catered to decorative accents.

Radiators Make Great Decorative Accents

Radiators seemed to be a thing of the past, unless you live in a home built before the '80s. Recently, hubby and I have been house hunting. As laid back as we both are, we have found that we have very specific needs in the design of our next home. Agreeing, that we want to live downtown, in the historic part of Flemington, we began our search which lead us to homes built in the 1880s- 1960s. Hence the reintroduction to the "radiator".

A lot of the homes we have been seeing are filled with charming elements that you don't see as much in newer construction. I love a clean modern space, but sometimes, it's the little things that can make your space, a happy space.

Now I know radiators are not as uncommon as some of the other elements we have been seeing, but living in our current space, with forced air, that seems to come from an invisible place, it seems that the radiator has presented a dilemma in the design scheme of our prospective  home. Older homes, mean smaller spaces. So, protruding radiator that takes away much needed space, oh my, what do I ever do with you? Radiator covers, I said.

And the obsession begins.

So far some of the images of radiators I've found have been inspiring and hopeful. There are sights where you can learn to DIY or have one custom made. I love how they can be made to really personalize a space. Or they can be very simple, functional pieces that add space instead of taking away.

I'm looking forward to finding a home with radiators. The possibilities are endless and what a fabulous way to take advantage of adding decorative accents.

Architectural Digest Show 2012

It's that time of the year again. Spring is here and so is the Architectural Digest Show. I love to go every year to see what interesting tid bits vendors are showcasing. However, for me, the most interesting and fun part of the show, is the Diffa Dining by Design NY.

Diffa, Desgin Industry Foundation Fighting Aids, raises money to provide care for people living with AIDS/ HIV and educaitonal resources for those living in high risk areas. Supporters come from all areas of design and visual arts. Every year they have a spectacular showcase of innovative and conceptual designs. I just love it! Check them out at www.diffa.org .

These are some of my favorites from the exhibit. Some are a lot of fun, bright, and colorful.

Some are simply elegant.

I think these are all great inspriations for decorating table settings. Especially with holiday dinners around coming up, how nice to maybe think a little outside of the box and make a great dining experience for your guest.


Marimekko. Can you say YUMMY!

Very clean and sophisiticated. Love this for a simple little gathering.

Love the Native American influence.

Everything covered in plastic. Hmmm.., this would be an interesting idea for a  rib dinner or maybe if  your guest consist of children and you want to be extra  cautious in case of messy spills.

I'm totally feeling inspired.



Loving French Country.

There seems to be an esquisite simplicity with French Country. The taupes and greys that keep everything harmonic and balanced. You don't have make your entire space French Country but just a few accessories can make just the right touch.

Tara Shaw Swedish Rococo bench. $3,830.00

Maybe, I've been influenced by my days at Restoration Hardware, but I find a feeling of being home with french country decor. It has that, "lived in" look but yet you know each piece in the room has been chosen with love and care, maybe even handed down from a fond relative. It's very stylish and has an effortless look. Classic.