veranda interiors

Altadore I update & a deep breath...

2012-02-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

Why is it no matter how organized I try to be I am always running around like a mad woman the week before a vacation? Yesterday I didn't sit down to have breakfast until, get this, 5 pm. The kicker, I was up at 5 am to get my workout in...it was a long one. Since we are listing Altadore I & will be gone I needed to ensure that I had a good representation of what the home was going to look like since I can't be here in person to explain all of the details. I whipped up these boards in the matter of a few minutes, that is what a pot of coffee will do for you. Here is what any potential leads will be seeing...

The cabinetry is currently being built in the home, but it is still a far cry from being completed.

While the mud room is small it will still have a lot of style, thanks in part to the two-tone cabinetry, chevron floors, and of course, my beloved Hicks pendants.

A few tidbits here and there that are going on in the home. A stunning Arteriors light will greet people at the front door and I am excited to see the levers POP when installed on the black shaker style doors.

For the main bath upstairs I decided to go with a small hexagon mosaic on the floor, it will be paired with a 3x6 subway on the tub/shower walls. The dark grey grout & Raven colored countertops are going to allow the awesomeballs fixtures to stand out.

For the flooring & shower walls I am using a 12 x 24 tile installed in a horizontal brick pattern, pebbled in the shower base, a furniture style vanity that will be stained and again, amazing fixtures.

The flex room is one that a purchaser can use as a den or a dining room, so keeping that in mind I still wanted to use something amazing. I was inspired by the wall detail on the left (via Burnham Design), we are going with something similar as it will be tone on tone, but more dramatic with Iron Mountain. And check out that light from Arteriors, I can't wait to see that beauty in person!

The powder room has 12' tall ceilings but it is a small space, I still want it to be inviting and intimate, the walls will be painted a few tones darker than what I am using in the rest of the home, and one 2 of the walls we will be using 4" wide alder slats from floor to ceiling, this detail will also encase the vanity, making it look like a floating cube off the wall.

While we are away the cabinetry will be wrapped up, painting will commence, the floors stained, and the counters installed...it is going to be like Christmas when we get back and I see this home. I am so excited, well, not excited for the vacation to be over that has yet to start but excited to see the progress of this home. What are your thoughts, you like?? Mel xo

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New threads...

2012-01-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Every time I have to get on a plane to go away I feel the need to have a new wardrobe. I have no idea why, maybe since it is a vacation and I am able to leave the crazy life behind for a bit, and one way to do that is with new threads. Here are a few items that I have picked up with Maui in mind over the last couple of weeks...

Rachel Roy Donna Dress | Cheap Monday Melinda Dress | Forever 21 Sheer Tiered Dress

BCBG Drape Shoulder Top | BCBG Lilliana Blouse | Forever 21 Mixed Sleeves Top | BCBG Karlie Sweater

Vix Solid Long Pant | Forever 21 Hi Low Skirt | Splendid Maxi Skirt

I am saving some shopping for the trip, there are some great boutiques all over the island that I adore, along with a fab selections of stores in Wailea that we always hit up. So knowing that this is a short 4 day week it is going to VERY busy and full of anticipation!! Hope you have a fabulous Monday! Mel xo

Home...

2012-01-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

Last night during my evening blog tour I went over to Terri's blog, Wind Lost, I love visiting it since she is a local blogger. She shared this amazing video with her readers and I wanted to do the same. I have seen snip-its on the commercials that are running now but never the full video. It showcases the beautiful scenery that I am lucky enough to call home. Take the time to watch it, it will put a smile on your face and give you chills, I promise. Also, be sure to watch it in full screen, it is too good not to!

Thank you Terri sharing this and reminding me how amazing this place truly is!!! Mel xo

Project Update: Hillhurst

2012-01-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

The inner city home we have under construction in Hillhurst is close to being wrapped up and it is just stunning, come and take a peek before we finish it off...

Love this dining room; the ceiling, wainscoting, and deep dark color...can't wait to see the light installed!

The mud room cabinetry came out lovely, we still have doors to install on the bottom portion, the clients wanted to be able to hide the mess that always accumulates in this space.

Oh the mess!!! Lighting boxes everywhere, tile being installed...gotta love the last few weeks before a possession. The kitchen is going to simply be STUNNING once it is complete. Once the cabinet doors are installed, accent lighting turned on, and the space cleaned, LOVE!

We used a 1x1 dark grey glass mosaic where the cook-top will be located and then a split face stone for the perimeter, here is a blurry shot of our sweet tile setter doing the instal.

Close up detail of the cornice & bulk-head that goes around the entire kitchen. We had a nasty beam that we had to work around...after much headache it turned out wonderful, another reason why I love built-on-site cabinetry, you can't do this with pre-fab! On the left is a close up of the split face back splash paired with River White granite.

There is a Jack & Jill bathroom on the second level, the clients fell in love with the bath I have for our boys in our new home (on the right), so we went with the same white hexagon floor tile, black pencil liners, and white subway tiles. To top it off we will be installing wallpaper by Cole & Sons.

The tile work is almost completed in the master bathroom (on the left) with pebbles inlayed in the shower floor and the back of the niche that will have floating glass shelves for shampoo bottles. The other main bathroom has a fun and youthful blue glass & marble mosaic, it is so fresh, love it.

I'll share more images once we have the home photographed...when it is cleaned and finished. Thanks so much for taking a little peek and here is to a better day today than yesterday. I managed to get into a car accident, drop 5lbs of frozen blueberries all over my kitchen, find out my little guy has a nasty infection, and the older one coming down with what I think is the flu. It can only get better, so here is to a kick butt Tuesday!! Mel xo

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'WOW' 1000 times...

2012-01-23T05:55:00.000-07:00

Check out this 1000 Sq. Ft. cabin designed by Olson Kundig Architects, it will make you say 'WOW' a thousand times...

The home can be almost completely enclosed when the owners are away...

A massive glass door leads from the main bedroom to a raised steel deck...

Love the mood that the entrance gives...

The industrial steel elements are well balanced with the use of wood and the exterior elements that you can see through every pane of glass...

all via Olson Kundig Atchitects

Pretty amazing space right? Hope your Monday is off to a great start, last full week of January already, crazy, right?! Mel xo

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PoP of color...

2012-01-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

Baby, it is COLD outside!! Seriously, yesterday it was -31C (that my US friends is -27F). So I am using these images that have pops of color to warm me up...

via Diamond Baratta

How fun would this be for a beach home, a nice, warm, sunny, beach home...

via Holly Dyment

Lovin' against the dark...

via Apartment Therapy

This image is making me want to paint the upper hallway in our cabin a fun and vibrant color. Maybe a good project for a rainy day this summer?

via Hurlong & Associates

And finally Blake, ADORE this dress & her. If anyone knows the designer of this dress let me know, I need it, now.

via google

So this post is my pick me up for the day. Stay warm wherever you are!! Mel xo

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Altadore I Updates...

2012-01-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned how excited I am about this home?? I decided to switch the exterior coloring so it flows with what I have going on in the interior of the home, here is what I put together...

The stucco will be two toned, the darker accent color is Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain (I have this in my home and love it) and the main color will be Benjamin Moore Grant Beige. For the tongue & grove ceder work & front door I am having a custom stain mixed up similar to the image above, and for the stone, a new profile from Eldorado called Ledgecut 33 in Sage.

I am finally wrapped up with the rest of the mill-work drawings, including this little number that I did up yesterday for the den wall...

As as you can tell from the few sketches I have shared, I do it all by hand at first, I am old school like that and I feel that it give life to the concepts, something the ol' computer just can't do. Mel xo

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What I ate & Instagram love

2012-01-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have a new obsession, Instagram. I feel like I can share tidbits of my life & day without having to do a blog post or make a massive Facebook or Twitter announcement. Something I have started doing is posting pics of the dinners that I make. One of my New Years resolutions was to take better care of myself, and one aspect of that is eating clean healthy food. So here is what was created last week in our kitchen...

Last night I made this wonderful dish from Cooking Light, a go to for me. Every recipe is amazing and bursting with flavor, including this one, Crunchy Shrimp with Toasted Couscous & Ginger-Orange Sauce. I also roasted up some amazing red peppers, just a bit of olive oil and the oven at 425...25 minutes to a fab side and great to add to eggs or sandwiches the next day!

After my workout on Saturday I wanted to make some easy go to snacks to have on hand. First up was a batch of kale chips, simply tear apart the celan/dry kale into bite size pieces, spray with olive oil, sprinkly with coarse salt and pop in the oven at 350 for 12-15 min. I may have eaten the whole batch that day.

Next up were some steamed artichokes, could.live.off.these. Add garlic, a bay leaf, and lemons to the water and steam for 45min or until the leafs pull off easily. Keep them in the fridge and enjoy them cold.

Friday evening was from Women's Heath magazine. The hubs was not excited about this dish, he hates (or so he said) beans. But every bite was gone...from all of us, the boys included. This recipe of Seared Scallops with White Beans, Spinach, & Bacon paired with roasted carrots is going to be a staple around here!

Thursdays dinner is one I like to make when I know our sitter will be here. It is gluten/dairy free and it doesn't have cilantro or beans (she really does hate those), so since she was hanging with us this evening I made New Orleans Style Shrimp from Cooking Light and paired it with brown rice and steamed broccoli...full of flavor with the fresh rosemary and lemon.

Another Cooking Light dish that is AH-mazing, I la la love this and so does everyone else under this roof. It is Gnocchi with Shrimp, Asparagus, & Pesto...easy and so damn good. Can you tell I like this one? And yep, roasted carrots again, I love how roasting veggies brings out the sweetness to them.

The week started off good with this warm Chicken & Shrimp Coconut Curry Soup. I posted this a few months back and heard from a few of you that tried it...so far everyone has enjoyed it as much as we do! Also, just realized we ate a LOT of shrimp...maybe that is why I have red meat on the menu 3 times this coming week!

As you can see, you CAN eat clean, healthy, amazing food without trying to live off baked chicken & raw veggies. If you want to follow along with me on Instagram simply search 'verandainteriors'. Have a fabulous week and try one of these possibly new to you recipes. Mel xo

Altadore I in full swing...

2012-01-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Seriously so busy, can't.see.straight. Why is now that I decided to give up the sauce till we leave for Maui next month? Oh well, it is what it is and I made a promise to myself so I am sticking through it, thanks mostly to the massive amounts of coffee I have been consuming as of late. Altadore I is in full swing, hardwood is being laid as we speak, the tile has all been ordered, and the finishers are starting the cabinetry today. Here are a couple of concepts I have going on in there...

One of the walls in the kitchen is above, well, my rough, very rough sketch of it. And below are my selections for this area of the home. OH, and haven't been this excited about a kitchen since our own...and I think I am MORE excited about this one, how is that possible?!

Counters: Caeserstone in Raven

Back splash: White sub-way with dark grey grout

Perimiter Cabinets: Lacquered Benjamin Moore White Dove

Island: 1/4 sawn vertical grain oak with custom stain

Cabinet Hardware: Richeleu

Lighting: Visual Comfort Boston Functional Wall

I'll share more with you as I get caught up, I will admit the boys are still waiting on me for some mill-work drawings (bad Melissa), so excuse me while I do that! Mel xo

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Dream home...

2012-01-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

Wanna see what my dream home looks like???

Head on over to La Dolce Vita today to see. I am so honored to share this with you on Paloma's blog, hope you like!! Mel xo

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Apparatus

2012-01-09T07:33:00.001-07:00

So you all know my obsession with lighting. Well, it just became even larger since I found Apparatus, one of a kind fixtures made from salvages components.

Ridiculous, right?!

all images via apparatus

I would love to see more of their creations. Each one is individual and oh so stylish. If only I could get my hands on that first one for one of our Altadore projects...that would make me a very happy girl!!! Hope your weekend was wonderful and you are sticking to your 2012 resolutions. I am very happy to say that so far (8 big days) I am following through with them, that puts a smile on my face. Mel xo

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For my girls...

2012-01-06T06:30:00.004-07:00

I hold my friends very close to my heart, maybe it is because I have never been one to have a Rolodex filled to the brim with them. But once I let someone in I promise to cry with them, make them laugh, and be there for them...even if it is 3 am. Some of my best girls have come across bumps in the road & when I saw this quote I thought of them...

via pinterest

You know who you are, you know you are loved, and you know I am right here for you.

Mel xo

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Recipe: Banana Bread

2012-01-05T06:30:00.002-07:00

I promise you this will be a hit and a recipe that is requested all the time. Give it a shot, you will NOT be disappointed!

1 C. unsalted butter (room temp)

2 C. sugar

6 ripe mashed bananas (3 C.)

4 large eggs, lightly beaten

2 1/2 C. white flour

2 t. baking soda

1 t. kosher salt

1 t. ground nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350

Cream butter & sugar together until it is light & fluffy.

Add in bananas & eggs, mix well until combined.

Sift together dry ingredients, slowly add into wet mixture and combine, do not over-mix.

Pour batter into either 2 loaf pans or 1 bundt pan that is lightly greased.

Bake for 60-70 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean.

Enjoy!!!

Hope you love this as much as we do, the boys get SO excited when I pull bananas out of the freezer (great way to save old bananas, just thaw in the skins before using, they will be watery but that is OK). Hope your day is off to a great start, I know mine is with a slice of this and a big ol' cup of coffee! Mel xo

If I had a...

2012-01-04T06:30:00.002-07:00

If I had a

via Apartment Therapy

I would have it look something like one of these, from light to dark...

via ModernHepburnTumbler

via happyliving.uk

via pinterest

via myidealhome.tumbler

via myparadissi

via etsy

Or maybe I could just take all of these, squish them together and make the perfect space for me! Do tell, which is your fave?? Mel xo

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Come fly with me...

2012-01-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

Come and check out this 737 that was re-fabricated for an Australian bachelor (sorry ladies, he is married now, I guess the plane sealed the deal). The standard 737 can accommodate 120 passengers, this particular one, 13, think of the leg room!

I think I would enjoy blogging from this spot, wouldn't you?

via Interiors

This beast was designed by Alberto Pinto, I am going to add him to my rolodex for when I win the lottery. For now I am off to buy my ticket and daydream about this on my next commercial flight. Mel xo

2012 resolutions

2012-01-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here is my list to start the year, I figure if I put them all down and make them official then they will stick. I'll let you know if my theory works.

via Design*Sponge

There really is more than black & white, right? I started off with a pink sweater yesterday, oh, and a purple tank during my workout this am...off to a good start.

via j crew

I am needing to focus more on myself. My skin, exercise level, and vitamin intake has been lacking to say the least. This is the only body I have so I better treat it right.

vitamins | clairsonic | NeoStrata | Spin Bike

With the hubs and the cute boys that keep me moving & laughing.

via etsy

My house is usually pretty damn clean, it has to be. I have clients, trades, and potential customers coming here a lot, and sometimes I only have a 10 minute warning. But my goal is to go to bed every evening to a clean home. Waking up to a space like that will help me start the day off in the right direction.

via pinterest

This one is something I need to work on and one of my very dear friends Erica keeps working on me with this. So I am listening Erica, positive thoughts about myself and my work.

via

So that is my list, what is on yours??? Let me know, like I said, maybe making yourself accountable for them will force you to stick to it. Here is to an AMAZING 2012!!! Mel xo

Over the hill & through the woods...

2011-12-20T09:14:00.001-07:00

That is where I am today, in the blog world and in the real world. First off I am visiting with Toby over at Because It's Awesome, because, well, she is awesome & from Missouri!

Here is a little peek at what I am chatting about on Toby's blog today...

And secondly we are off to Missouri for the holidays. I will be a few hours south of Toby in good ol' Springfield but I would love to meet up with her pretty face one day, maybe this summer! Hope you are ready for the last few days of the year and if not, put on the coffee and get movin, I know I need too. Mel xo

My house: Holiday Decor

2011-12-19T06:00:00.031-07:00

Better late than never, right? Well, I finally got around to snapping a few pics of our holiday decor for this year. Last year I posted pics from our old home during the holidays, we built essentially the same floor plan, just much larger but decorating it was difficult since my decor and style has changed so much since then. I kept it on the minimalist side this time around & I have to admit I kinda liked it!

{Exterior}

My amazing sister that was visiting from Dallas, the one behind this, flew up to help with our party she also did the front door for me (she hates the cold so this was a big deal), it turned out amazing and makes the entrance so much more welcoming. The urns I quickly tossed together using a combination of fresh evergreen clippings, white birch branches, and tons of gold berry sprays.

The dusting of snow we just had gives the front a winter wonderland feeling. I even had to toss up some lights & garland on the exterior fireplace, the fire was roaring the entire night of the party and this is where it ended at 4am...I was a bit tiered the next day.

{Foyer}

I decided to go all gold with this tree, I wanted a warm color that invited people into the home. There was still tons of whimsy going on, from my twisted icicles, to the curly gold glittery branches, & the gold balls on top...even some of my girlfriends ended taking items off and adding them to their hair!

{Great Room}

I had fun with this space, little areas here & there, fresh greens & flowers, then the mantle. I kept the real tree simple, just tons & tons of white lights, nothing else, I wanted the rest of the space to take center stage.

For the mantle I used the cheap/fake garland, mixed in tons of clear lights, added some crystallized branches, leaded glass & silver ornaments then a massive amount of fresh clippings to give it a more natural feel...I am so in love this this spot, I can't stop staring at it!

{Powder Room}

Every room needs a little something here and there, it can even be as simple as a small floral arrangement flanked by fresh greenery & an ornament.

{Kitchen}

Little tid bits here and there, from hanging mercury glass ornaments in the transoms to the Byers' Choice carolers hanging out on my window sill, I have sprinklings of the holidays throughout this space.

{Hallway}

Besides the transoms & wainscoting my Arteriors Sabine lamp makes me smile every time I walk towards this space.

{Dining Room}
This is one of my most cherished trees, it helps me display my collection of Christopher Radko ornaments. I have been collecting these for years and every one represents something special, from our wedding to spending New Years Eve of 2000 in Times Square, this tree has my life covered!

{Pantry}
Did you really think I would forget my pantry?!

So that is most of the house & most of the decor, I have been so busy party planing and now on recovery mode while trying to pack to head down to Missouri I feel like I am lacking a bit, so for that I apologize. Hope you enjoyed what I did share, and here are a few from the shindig we had on Friday, thank you to everyone that came out to celebrate with us...can't wait to do it again next year!

{With my girls, 15 years of laughter}

{The hubs & I}

{My sister, AKA the helper}

So on that note I wish all of you a wonderful and happy holiday season, may the laughter be loud and may the joy be carried on to 2012! Mel xo

Adding to the 2011 Christmas Tour of Homes via

The Nester

The Shabby Creek Cottage

The Inspired Room

A La Mode

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Around this house...

2011-12-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

It has been a whirl wind, we were in Dallas last week for Thanksgiving, I had my 30th (again) birthday, managed a bout of food poisoning, and Operation Glitter in in full effect at our house. Here are a few peeks at what is going on around here besides all that...

My birthday present to myself. Who knew a blanket could make a whole room perfect?! Then again anything Hermés makes anything perfect.

Snagged this pretty black & polished chrome telescope at HomeSense the other night, it fills up this corner of our great room perfectly!

I brought back the wallpaper from the States, by 9am install will be underway in the mud room, can.not.wait!

And here are some peeks at Operation Glitter, I will be doing a full holiday post once I get it all done.

Lots going on and this girl has to run, enjoy your weekend & happy December!!! Mel xo

Pretty Pretty, a WINNER, and a deal!

2011-11-29T06:52:00.000-07:00

A day late, my apologies. We just got back from out trip down to Dallas and besides needing a detox I need to get organized! Here is a pretty to start your day...

via Tumbler

And now on to the winner...

#14 is L.Wallace who has won the $100 credit towards any Stella & Dot item, thanks so much to my dear friend Lori Stein!!
And get this, Lori is offering anyone that entered the giveaway 10% off a purchase?! Crazy nice right, all you have to do it email her at sdloristein@hotmail.com and she can give you all of the deets. Congratulations to the winner, can't wait to hear what you are ordering. Mel xo

Giveaway: Stella & Dot

2011-11-22T05:30:00.012-07:00

I am so excited to be partnering up with a very dear friend who just happens to be a Stella & Dot super star! Let me introduce you to Lori Stein and the awesome giveaway that she is doing for you, my amazing readers...

Do you know what you can do with $100 and Stella & Dot?! Just take a peek below and some of my favorite items that I know I would go for...

Harlow Bangle | Pegasus Necklace | Soiree Trio Ring | Madeline Pearl Necklace

Petra Braided Bracelet | Nouvelle Ring | Clover Double Wrap Leather Bracelet

{RULES}

1. Must be a follower of Veranda Interiors

2. Visit Lori's Stella & Dot page HERE and let us know what you would get

3. Become a fan of Lori's on her Facebook page HERE

4. Become a fan of Veranda Interiors on Facebook HERE

5. Tweet about it!! Tweet Tweet

6. Here is a double entry, order any item from Lori through her Stella & Dot site HERE and you get 2 more shots at it, let me know what you buy...I'm nosy like that.

So say what?! 7 ways to win, shut the front door! Remember, one entry for every way you have entered above, be sure to leave ONE comment per entry. The giveaway will be open until Sunday, November 27th. The winner will be drawn through Random.org & will be announced Monday, best of luck!!!

*open to US residents only, don't worry, I'm having giveaways for everyone shortly*

Thank you so much Lori for helping me host this killer giveaway, and right in time for the holiday season. Think of all of the pretty pretty things you can get for yourself or others, it is that time of the year! Mel xo

BTW, I'm off to Dallas for some family time, margaritas, and fried turkey. I'll be back soon :)

Gift Guide {BOOKS}

2011-11-21T05:30:00.004-07:00

Here are a few books that I am loving for holiday gifts, fingers crossed a few are under the tree for me when I wake up Christmas morning!!

{FASHION}

{ANIMALS}

Living With Dogs | Living with Pugs | Horses | On This Earth | Bird

{TRAVEL}

Luxury Hotels Top of the World | New York Portraits of a City | Remote Luxury |

Top Ski Resorts of the World | Cool Hotels Best of Europe

{FOOD}

Cooking My Way Back Home | Home Cooking with Jean-Georges | The Complete Keller
José Andres Made In Spain | Modernist Cuisine | The Art of Living Joe Beef

Hope this helps make shopping a bit easier for some of you! Be sure to check back tomorrow, hosting a giveaway (one of many coming up) for the holiday season. Have a wonderful Monday! Mel xo

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Lynx Ridge, more images...

2011-11-17T05:30:00.014-07:00

Here are some more images from the Lynx Ridge home that we recently turned over to the clients. As I mentioned before this home was a bit of a challenge for me, it could not be any more different from our own home, in fact I think the only similarity that it has is that we both moved in in 2011...but that is why I love my job. I don't want every home I work on to be representative of my style and what I love, I want it to speak volumes about the home owners, it is their space and they need to be filled with joy while in it.

{study}

{upper loft}

{wet bar}

For not being one that is overly fond of tons of wood I do love this wet bar. The curved bulkhead and paneled ceiling make this space very masculine and the perfect spot to belly up to.

all images by LifeSeven & property of Veranda Estate Homes

So glad it is Thursday it means this week is almost over...it has been a loooooong week that got worse yesterday when the Hubs went out to start his truck and surprise surprise it was gone, as in stolen; with his wallet, all of our building permits, plans, his work computer, tons.of.stuff. I am a believer in karma and it will come around, honestly it is more of a pain than anything. We are all safe, healthy, and very blessed so have fun with the truck you jerk, you can't steal our spirit! Mel xo

Mud Room: Take 4

2011-11-16T05:30:00.003-07:00

A few of you have asked on the progress of the mud room. Well, there hasn't been any. I have kept all of the paper samples up, staring at them, walking by them, even touching them...but for some reason I haven't ordered any. I guess I have commitment issues or something, that is until now. I had a 'love at first sight' experience with some paper and I knew we were meant to be.

Say hello to what will finally be gracing our mud room walls, this stunning paper by Florence Balducci for Anthropologie. I think it is going to be the perfect fit for the space and I have a few fun things planed for this room once the paper is done.

BUT a warning, it will be awhile before I share the images, not sure when I can get the paper installed and honestly with the holidays on the horizon this girl is going to be a busy bee working, playing, and a bit of partying...don't worry Santa, I'll be good! Mel xo

Family Pictures

2011-11-15T05:30:00.003-07:00

We just got our family pictures back from the talented Maria Lang and I am so in love with every single one of them!! Here is a peek at a ~~few~~ a lot of my favorites...

all images by the one & only Maria Lang

Thank you Maria for your gentle ways, amazing eye, and talent that makes me smile. I feel so luck to have you document our family year after year. Oh, and HERE is a link to Maria's blog, with a few more from this shoot. xo Mel

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Be sure to pop over to the guest post I did for Cara and enter the giveaway, that is only if you want a $100 to put towards a Visual Comfort light!!!!

Design Crush: Michael Abrams

2011-11-14T05:30:00.004-07:00

It is not very often that I find a space that wows me, but this Astor Street home does just that. Michael Abrams I love you & your style...

Now this, this sitting room, that ceiling, the light, everything, I need this now!

via Michael Abrams

Amazing, right? I know I will have dreams about that ceiling! Hope you had a wonderful weekend and here to to a great week ahead! Mel xo

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Be sure to pop over to the guest post I did for Cara and enter the giveaway, that is only if you want a $100 to put towards a Visual Comfort light!!!!

Fridays Favorite: Shellac ladies...a giveaway too!!!

2011-11-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

I haven't done one of these in awhile, mostly because I haven't been THIS excited about something in a long time. Shellac, as in a shellac manicure. Ladies listen to me, THEY ROCK!

So whats the deal? Well, lets see, it is dry as soon as it is done being applied, no more fan hands or being careful trying to find the keys in your bag. The best thing though, it last 2+ weeks, no chips, no peeling. They stay shiny and pretty till you remove it. I also find that my nails are not breaking as often as they usually do which is a bonus!

Tons of colors to choose (more than in the image above) from, my favorite as of late is Fedora, but I am gearing up for a bright festive red. I haven been getting them done for the past 4 months and I am never going back to the old school way. Give it a shot, I know you will be hooked! Happy weekend!!! Mel xo

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Be sure to pop over to the guest post I did for Cara and enter the giveaway, that is only if you want a $100 to put towards a Visual Comfort light!!!!

A lil' treat...

2011-11-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

I'm over here today with Cara...

Be sure to pop over, there is a little giveaway going on that you may be interested in. Mel xo

Knock Knock: Rock Lake

2011-11-09T05:30:00.003-07:00

Amazing, right? Just wait till you see inside this beauty by LDa Architecture & Interiors.

What I love most about this home is the consistency between the exterior & interior of the home, to say it flows is an understatement.

While you couldn't ever pay me enough to have dark floors like this again I still love them. Maybe when we are not living with little ones anymore, maybe then we will consider it.

I like the detail of the sliding doors to the formal dining room, a fun way to add drama without killing the space. Also notice the windows are consistent throughout the home, making every room feel like an extension of one another.

Check out that detail on the interior doors, but what really gets me is the view from that tub!

I haven't done a black kitchen in years, in fact the last one was 6 years ago...maybe the time has come to do it again, it is quite spectacular isn't it?

Everyone needs their own DJ booth right?

Yeah, that will do...

all images via LDa Architects & Interiors

I know I found a lot of inspiration from this home, I hope you did as well!! Mel xo

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Lynx Ridge Kitchen...

2011-11-08T05:30:00.006-07:00

For the past 9 months we have been working on a very traditional home in Lynx Ridge. The clients had specific items and styling that they wanted represented in the space and at the end of the day it was everything that they hoped it would be and more. There really is nothing better than having clients that respect the work we do, the craftsmanship, and the time that goes into making one of our homes a reality.

The kitchen was built-on-site, as with all of our cabinetry, out of alder and stained a dark brown with red undertones. It took us a few times to nail the color but we finally got it perfect.

The kitchen features a large ' x ' island and is open to the vaulted great room that has soaring 26' tall ceilings.

Attention to detail is throughout the home and they represent the little things that take a home from a 5 to a 10. With toe-kick detailing at the base, dental mold up top there is a balance of details that continues in-between with the corbels under the hood, and a beautiful marble backsplash

The flooring throughout the common areas of the main level are finished on site 3" rustic maple with a dark brown custom stain applied at the time they were sanded, the perfect compliment to the rich tones of the cabinets.

The 48" Sub Zero built-in fridge is fully integrated with alder panels that match the cabinetry in the home, a great way to still have an amazing fridge without the large amount of stainless...perfect for a more traditional home. In the island we built pull out baskets in the island for the items that they use in the kitchen daily.

Below is a glimps of the pantry, there is another fridge going in the space next to the countertop and the cabinetry continues around to the other two walls for maximum storage. Just off of the kitchen is a small command center that also can function as a small wet bar when they are entertaining with the wine storage and ample counter space.

And the mud room, just off of the kitchen. Again, alder, details, warmth.

All image owned by Veranda Estate Homes & photographed by LifeSeven Photography

There is a bit of the home, I will be sure to share more with you soon...the bar turned out killer!! Hope you enjoyed this home, as I mentioned it is a far departure from what I have been working on as of late but that is what makes my job so enjoyable and keeps me on my toes!! Mel xo

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Altadore II is underway!

2011-11-07T05:30:00.003-07:00

Our inner-city spec homes are gearing up and coming along beautifully. We just excavated Altadore II this past week, here is what is going there...

As of right now, this is what it looks like...

This particular home will feature over 2400 Sq. Ft. on 2 levels with an additional 900 Sq. Ft. developed in the basement. For the interior design of this home I am going for a more traditional look than what I am doing for Altadore I. A few items have been selected already, including the faucets...

Kohler Bancroft faucets throughout

Kohler Parq faucet for the kitchen sink

Delta Traditional pot filler

Here are a few examples that I have on my inspiration board for this particular home. Think modern lines with traditional twist here & there. A combination that I think will appeal to the masses and not as stylized and specific as Altadore I.

via Tracery Interiors

via Elle Decor

Altadore I is framed, plumbed, and the wiring was being completed this weekend.

I'm working on a follow up post with more details about the interior for Altadore I, stay tuned for that. Hope all of you had a fantastic weekend!! BTW, thank you all so much for your sweet words, I am feeling much better and now that the flu has made its way through the house it is more than welcomed to stay far far away. Mel xo

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Sleep...

2011-10-28T07:28:00.000-06:00

I need sleep...it is just that simple. This has been a crazy crazy week and it is already Friday!! We are turning the Lynx Ridge home over the the clients this afternoon, we were there all day yesterday dealing with last minute items and also having the home photographed (so excited to share those with you). Between that, too many client meetings to count, numerous proposals being done up, and oh yeah...the flu. Did ya know I got sick and had to cancel my trip home to Missouri, insert sad face here. This girl is spent and wants nothing more than a day in a bed or room that looks like this...

via Pinterest

So excuse me while I take some time to catch my breath...there are a lot of exciting jobs coming down the pipe and I can't wait to share them with you. Happy weekend all!! Mel xo

Arteriors knocked it out of the park...

2011-10-26T07:38:00.000-06:00

With High Point happening we are starting to see the stellar new items by some amazing suppliers. One that has me tickled pink is Arteriors, the new items are just amazing and I know a couple of the fixtures below will be finding a home in an upcoming project soon!!

{Lighting}

Sheldon 3 light with painted gold interior

Tilda 5 light

Sherman 6 light (ADORE)

Savory Polished Brass

Raine Vintage Pendant

You can expect to see some of these make an appearance in our Altadore projects, so fresh & fun, don't you think? If you are interested in any of the items in the post or another Arteriors product please drop me a note, I would love to help you select the right item! Mel xo

Pretty Pretty 5

2011-10-25T05:30:00.001-06:00

Shiny & clear, adore...

via Desk of Lola

Mel xo

Pretty Pretty 4

2011-10-24T05:30:00.002-06:00

Adore the tub splash & mirror...

via Pinterest

Mel xo

7 years

2011-10-23T05:30:00.001-06:00

Happy 7th hubby.

I love you.

wife xo

Pretty Pretty 3

2011-10-22T05:30:00.005-06:00

Oh the symmetry, pretty pretty!

via House & Home

Mel xo

Pretty Pretty 2

2011-10-21T05:30:00.001-06:00

For the holidays...

via Southern Living

Mel xo

Pretty pretty 1

2011-10-20T05:30:00.000-06:00

I am heading back to Missouri tomorrow to visit the family and my new baby niece, so over the next few days I'm going to be posting pretty pretty images, don't want to leave you all hanging till I get back & caught up on work! Enjoy & I'll be back soon...

via Brooks & Falotico

Mel xo

HomeSense finds...

2011-10-17T05:30:00.006-06:00

So you know when you go shopping and you either find nothing or a massive amount of awesomeness? Well, last week was filled with awesomeness for me, here is a peek at what I snagged from HomeSense this past week...

So recall this post? Well, one of my BFF's found a horse painting for me at HomeSense, when I went to see it I knew it was not for me, but right next to it was the beauty below. My hear skipped a beat, it was huge, just over 5' tall, PERFECTION, and a decent price of $400. But alas, on hold for someone else. I happened to be out for dinner that night with the wonderful Erica from Moth Design, she understood my obsession. So we called the store right before they were closing and YIPEE they didn't come back to purchase it. I was outside of the store at 8:50am the next morning freezing my bum off, I had to be the first one in the door so I could buy it...after how much sleep I lost the night before I might have had a meltdown if it wasn't mine. Sorry, that was longer than expected, but seriously, I went through a lot to get it!

BTW, if you love it and can't find one at HomeSense you could always pay $500 US for it from Z Gallerie. Makes me love it even more knowing I paid less!

Loving my quartz bookends ($17 each)...now I just need some fab books, ha!

Scooped up this great silver tray Erica picked out for me ($25), did I mention she is such a dear and met me at HomeSense to see the painting in person. Seriously...she is awesome.

Here is a new friend that will be placed in the mud room, total score for only $24!

Needed a new tray to hold my soaps at the kitchen sink ($25), this one is the perfect size and it compliments the faucet perfectly.

Finally I have Christmas on the mind, so I already have some great plans for these once the decor starts going up in the house ($14 each).

The house is coming together and these items are making it feel like home. Hope your weekends was amazing!! Mel xo

I'm excited now...

2011-10-14T05:30:00.000-06:00

I'll admit, my holiday decorating is not going up as fast as it usually does. By September 15th I have the house filled with fall & Halloween decor and Christmas starts going up November 1. I have been so focused on getting things up on the walls, holes filled, & items places that I have yet to add one glimpse of festive decor. But let me tell you, the second my eyes saw these images I was geared up. Yes, I know it is Christmas but sometimes you just need inspiration to get you moving again!

via At Home in Arkansa

So first step Halloween then bring on to the glitter filled Christmas decor! Mel xo

Caviar never looked so good...

2011-10-13T05:30:00.000-06:00

Loving the Caviar collection by Arteriors, need to find a client to use one of these ASAP. Here is a little peek at the line...

{18 light}

{8 light}

(small, medium, & large pendant}

{fixed staggered 7 light}

Now if you ask me those are yummy lights! Would love to incorporate one of them, OK, a few, into some upcoming homes. Hint hint clients!! If you are interested in any of the lights in this post please drop me a line for pricing. Mel xo

Altadore I: A few selections

2011-10-12T05:30:00.001-06:00

Please excuse me while I take some time to get all of the mill-work drawings wrapped up for Altadore I. I have a meeting with the electrician later this afternoon so this girl has got.to.get.her.shit.done.period. Thought I would share some additional items that will be gracing this home.

{lighting}

Visual Comfort Ziyi Chandelier (but in antique brass) for the powder room

Visual Comfort Boston Functional Double Arm wall light for the kitchen

Visual Comfort Milton wall light for the master bathroom

Visual Comfort Graydon light for the main bathroom

*If you are interested in any lights from Visual Comfort feel free to contact me for a quote*

{appliances}

Viking appliance package including a 30" sealed burner gas range, hood vent that is leading the fun design/layout of this room, and a 36" French door fridge/freezer.

{door hardware}

Here are the options I am contemplating.

Emtek Bristol knob but with a French Antique (antique brass) finish back-plate

Emtek Milano lever in French Antique with a rectangular back-plate

This is all going to mesh together to create an incredible space, I will share some kitchen sketches with you later. Too excited about this one to keep quiet!!

The above image was snapped from my phone when we were done with our pictures yesterday, it is just one of the amazing locations Maria found for us. And yes, we did belly crawl under that gate, I felt like such a rebel, HA. I am so excited to see all of the pics, especially the ones she shot with her medium format film camera...yep, you read that right, film. Back to basics people! Enjoy your day!!! Mel xo

Family Pictures

2011-10-10T08:01:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow we are having our family photos done with the insanely talented Maria Lang. This will be our 5th time working with Maria and I am so excited, minus the fact that I still have no idea what any of us are going to wear, YIKES! Here are a few of my all time favorite images that Maria has take...

Her adorable son

One of my besties little ones

A photographer friend of hers

Her sweet sweet little girl

Yours truly with the Hubs and W

M with my parents last summer

W with my father

My boys

Here are some of my favorite wedding images from Maria...

As you can see from the images above she is a true talent and I feel so fortunate to have her document our lives for us. If you are ever lucky enough to meet her in person you will see that she is also one of the sweetest, nicest, and beautiful person you will encounter. Until then be sure to check out her blog & website to view more of her work. Looking forward to sharing the images with you...but right now this girl has some shopping to do! Mel xo

First memory (an addition)...

2011-10-06T09:17:00.001-06:00

An iconic commercial that introduced us to an iconic brand...

Thank you Steve Jobs for making us able to connect with each other, teach each other, and laugh with each other. It amazes me how much you truly did in your short lifetime. And one more that I am adding now, this has never aired but it so deserves to...

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
{Steve Jobs 2005}

Let the light in...

2011-10-05T05:30:00.010-06:00

I have started the design process with our architect for Altadore III (yep, 3 amazing homes inner-city!). Since this home is on a corner lot I want to take advantage of the side yard with windows galore. The kitchen is quite large for a home that is just over 2400 Sq. Ft. so I thought it would be the perfect time to incorporate a kitchen design with windows on each side of the range & hood-fan. Here are some brilliant examples below.

Love the build-out that is wrapped in white subways and must remember to incorporate fun lights in this space.

via Carter & Company

Really enjoying this kitchen...but where does that hood fan go? Oh, it just stops. Wish they would have carried it up to the ceiling and incorporated it into the design.

via Atalanta Home Magazine

Note to the Hubs: I want a skylight like that at some point in my life...in some home, somewhere, somehow.

via Pinterest

This kitchen is so warm and inviting. from the timbers to the dark wood and beautiful herringbone backsplash, love!

via Decorati

This is the kitchen in my Hawaiian dream home, so glad they got this one right...now, do I get an ocean view from those windows??

via Sutton Suzuki

The thing I like most about this layout are the additional cabinets on each side of the hood. I find that is where I keep all of my oils, spices, and other items I use frequently. This is a possibility.

via google

We should have the plans back by Friday and I am so excited. With Altadore I & II underway I am having a lot of fun creating 3 fun and unique spaces...more on all of them to come! Mel xo

An Enigma...

2011-10-04T08:09:00.000-06:00

The Enigma Surfaces by Jamie Beckwith, nuff said...now I need a client that loves them as much as I do.

Here is a gimps of some of my favorite patterns from the on-line catalog...

*sigh* I'm in love! You? Happy day! Mel xo

Knock Knock: 1927 stunner

2011-10-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

Loving this home that was originally built in 1927, it is a stunner!

I wish that I had more images to share, but this was found on a real estate website and the home is sold. With a listing price of $2.3million I can see why it didn't stay on the market. If Seattle's market is anything like Vancouver's or Calgary's that is one heck of a price.

The convex treads add so much to this space, a great way to spruce up a standard shape staircase.

This is one galley kitchen I could live with!

Even the rear exterior of this home is inviting.

all images via Sotheby's

Hope your weekend was filled with laughter, I know mine was thanks to a girls night, lots of belly laughs and fun was had! Mel xo

A work in progress...

2011-09-30T05:00:00.000-06:00

A lot of you have asked for me to share more of our new home with you, but I am not there yet. Soon my dears, it takes time and I am far too particular to just let anything slide. While cruising thought Pinterest I found this and it pretty much sums up my philosophy...

via Pinterest

So truthful, now go and purge if you need to or pick up that special item that you know would be perfect in your home. Happy weekend! Mel xo

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Sneak Peek: Laundry Room

2011-09-28T05:00:00.002-06:00

I am almost done with this space so I thought I would share a couple of images with all of you. As I say all the time, every.single.room in your home is special and deserves to be amazing. I still have a long way to go but I am so happy with the progress so far, so without further ado, my laundry room...

I headed out to Ikea a couple of weeks ago and picked up 10 of the white Ribba frames, the perfect addition to the space. It allows me to be surrounded by my boys while I seem to do endless amounts of laundry.

And of course, my Visual Comfort touch in this room, 3 of the Simple Scallop Pendants in soft silver. I wanted something fun and whimsical and this was the perfect addition. The other circle on the ceiling is my speaker so I can have a little dance party while I am folding & ironing, love that!

So that is a space I spend a lot of time in, just a warning, I will be sharing this again once I am done DONE with it and we have it photographed. There are a few fun things I designed into the room...but you will just have to wait to see those. Mel xo

**Sharing with Just A Girl!**

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Recipe: Chicken & Shrimp Coconut Curry Soup

2011-09-27T05:00:00.002-06:00

This is a house hold favorite here, the boys gobble it up and always ask for seconds. Now that the leafs are starting to turn this will make its way into our meal rotation a few times a month. Here is a wonderful and easy dish I am sure all will love...

1 T. canola oil

1 finely chopped white onion

2 t. red curry paste

1.5 t. curry powder

1/2 t. ground tumeric

1/2 t. coriander

2 garlic cloves, minced

6 cups chicken stock

1 can light coconut milk

1 lb diced raw chicken breast

400 grams rice noodles

*I use Kame Stir-Fry Thai Rice Noodles

1/2 C. chopped green onions

2 T. white sugar

2 T. fish sauce

1 lb. shrimp, peeled

1 package spinach, chopped

3 small hot red chilies, seeded & chopped

3/4 C. fresh cilantro

lime wedges

Heat oil in large pot, add onion and saute till translucent. Mix curry paste, curry power, turmeric, coriander, & garlic and continue to saute for 1 minute. Add chicken stock, diced chicken, & noodles to the pan and bring to a boil. Add coconut milk and reduce heat, simmer till the chicken is almost done, about 15 minutes. Add in sugar, fish sauce, shrimp, spinach, and chilies. Continue to simmer until the shrimp is cooked and the spinach is wilted. Serve with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge...ENJOY! Oh and another thing, this is actually low in fat and healthy, crazy flavor for an amazing dish. Mel xo

How To: Haunted House

2011-09-26T05:00:00.003-06:00

I posted this last year and I still get e-mails about it, so I thought it would be the perfect time do a little re-post about one of my favorite items...the haunted house I made for Halloween. Once it is up in the foyer they boys know that trick or treating is just around the corner.

Since I made this a few years ago before a blog was even a concept for me I didn't take progress images, but I will try to give you all the details so you can create your own as well. The first thing that you will need to decide on is what doll house kit to use,

for my project I used the Arthur Dollhouse Kit.

I had Rob cut a piece of MDF that was 4" bigger than the size of the dollhouse so I had room to decorate. Once you have that you can start off by building the house and getting it all set up. When it is dry start to get it all ready for the Halloween season by painting it. I used an orange base paint and then used diluted black paint on top to give it a 'dirty' look.

When placing the shutters around the windows put them on crooked, make it look dilapidated and worn. That is what would scare you away from a home, isn't it? For the shingled I stained them with the diluted black paint as well for a weathered look. Add a bit of moss to the corners with a glue gun and let the scary factor grow.

For the base of the house use a glue gun to place more moss around for the ground. Along with moss I added twigs to the roof and the sides of the home. A place like Michale's has some small Halloween items that are perfect for this project where they keep the Halloween villages, I managed to pick up the little trees and a few skeletons from there.

Check out THIS site for some fun Halloween items to add to the surroundings. Pumpkins, headstones, spooky skeletons. This is where you can really make it your own!

So that is the low down on the haunted house that graces our foyer every year, I hope that you take on the challenge of making one yourself. It is sure to be a crown pleasure and something children will look forward to seeing year after year.

I am thinking that I will make a new one next year, one that suits our new home better. Then again, this one is pretty awesome so I may scrap that idea! Mel xo

Equestriain magic...

2011-09-22T05:00:00.002-06:00

One thing I love about living out of the city is the land and the horses on nearby properties that we see everyday. There is something magical about horses, even on the inside of the home...

via Country Living

via Garret Cord Warner

via Tumbler

via Restoration Hardware

via Pinterest

via Carson Poetzl

And if you are info something a bit more 3D there is this option that leaves me speechless...

via Tumbler

OK, so the last one is clearly a joke, could you imagine?! HA! Hope the day finds you well, another busy one for me but I know it will be another great one. Mel xo

A love letter...

2011-09-21T05:00:00.001-06:00

Dear Cameron table lamp by Visual Comfort in Quartz,

You are OMGoodness amazeballs! BUT with a retail price of close to $3,000, yep, that is right I feel like we may never have our time together. Why are you so amazing and SO expensive? Even with my trade account you are still too far out of reach for me at this time. I can only hope that one day we will meet and we can sit by the fire together, read together, blog together, and just be together. Until then, I love you.

(yes, that was a love letter to a lamp)

I guess I can introduce you to Cameron's siblings. While they are not as stunning as Quartz they are still nice...but come on, how could you ever love anything else after seeing the original?

Meet Parchment...

and Crystal...

Quarts is where it is at, that is all I gotta say. Mel xo

If you are interested in any items by Visual Comfort feel free to e-mail me, I would love to help you find the perfect light for your space!

Mud Room: Take 3

2011-09-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

I just want this room done. Every time I walk through it I stop, get frustrated, put on or take off my shoes and walk away. This needs to be a happy fun spot in the ol' hacienda since we enter & leave the home through this space. Here is where I am at now.

My totally awesome & kick ass lights from Visual Comfort finally arrived. Say hello to my 3 extra-large Hicks pendants in polished nickel. Aren't they lovely?

They are lined up perfectly with the transom windows on the doors, it might have taken a bit and my electrician might think I am crazy but it is just right.

On a side note, love the adorable small Hunters next to my big old black ones, they make me giggle every time I see them.

Now onto the wall treatment. This space is too bland, I want to funk it up (but it still has to appeal to the Hubs) so here are my options for paper that we both (somewhat) agree on.

{opt 1}

Hexagono by Tres Tintas

A bit busy but with frames added to the walls it would get broken up.

{opt 2}

Light & Bright by Brewers

This is the Hubs favorite, but for some reason my sample is reminding me of fall & Halloween.

{opt 3}

Hepburn by Kuboaa

Here it is in a virtual room, this image is the main reason why you always want to order sample, it may look blue but nope, it showed up black & white.

{opt 4}

I wish. I love this one by Jordi Labanda but it got shot down faster than I can say 'babe'...

Which choice is your fave for the room? I will be adding fun pillows to the bench seating, frames in a contrasting accent color (thinking orange or red), and of course a durable rug that I will most likely keep neutral. Would love to hear your thoughts...I really want this room done, as in done like dinner! Mel xo

Back 2 Basics: White Subway Tile

2011-09-19T05:00:00.003-06:00

I can't tell you how many bathrooms I use a simple white subway tile in & I have been thinking...it is time to use this for a kitchen again. I always get caught up in the stunning stone, glass, mosaic, VERY expensive tiles for the backsplashes. Why not go back to the basic and the well priced item?

via De Giulio Kitchens

You can mix it up a bit by running one row vertically along the bottom, an easy way to jazz things up.

via MidWest Living

Even though this detail (that I am loving) is out of painted brick you could easily get the same effect with tile.

via My Ideal Home

Carry it throughout, even the hood. This allows the windows and amazing lighting to take center stage.

via Kitchen Lab

Love the use of the tile on this massive wall in the Kitchen of the Year by House Beautiful. The contrast to the cabinets and those killer Visual Comfort French Library Double Wall Lights...adore.

via House Beautiful

Again, so many things going on in this kitchen, this is a great example of how the simplicity of the backsplash helps to pull it all together. Anything else would have been a distraction.

via House Beautiful

Going up, up, up to the ceilings. Also, take a good look and notice the small square tiles that they used every 5 rows to add some character.

via Tumbler

If you want to have fun...use black grout, not white or grey.

via Pinterest

And this one, I just love everything about this image...L-O-V-E

via La Dolce Vita

I am keeping this in mind for Altadore, this might help those killer vibrant brushed bronze faucets by Kohler (which killed the budget) take center stage. Hope your weekend was wonderful!! Mel xo

Pinterest finds this week...

2011-09-16T05:00:00.001-06:00

Here are some of my favorite things I found while cruising the 'Discussions' pages on Pinterest this week.

{Chevron Here & Chevron There}

Dying over this tray. Someone pinned it from Etsy and yes, it is sold. *sigh*

How fun is this door design?! Such a great way to jazz up those bland plat panel doors. I think it would be perfect for a rental since you could easily do it out of tape so the landlord will stay happy.

{Altadore Ideas}

Thinking that maybe this would be a great idea above one of the islands. Remember, I have 3 homes to do up in Altadore and I want them all to be individual.

Check out this vanity design, pretty fabtastic (yes, fab, not fan) if you ask me. Thinking Altadore I master bathroom?

{Party Hardy}

Brilliant! Why are the simplest things so amazing?! Love this for a larger cheese tray, no more guest wondering what they are munching on.

This is a MUST remember for future birthday parties.

{Decorating for the Seasons}

How funny is this? Supper excited around here for pumpkin carving time. These would also be fun for place card holders if you are hosting a dinner party around Halloween.

I am so doing this!

If you want to see some more fun things check out all of my boards HERE. Happy pinning & happy weekend! Mel xo

Around this house...

2011-09-15T06:30:00.000-06:00

A few antlers have been added to the great room, matching ones on each side of the day bed.

A massive art piece I picked up, still not sure on it's final home.

W is thrilled is marquee light is finally in, now if the hubs would just hang it up (hint hint). You can find them HERE.

W also got a chair for his desk, a great lil' purchase from good old Ikea.

I'll share more next week if the hubs gets around to my list that seems to be growing day after day. I need to do something with the 3,629 frames I bought at Ikea! Mel xo

My Missoni loot...

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

Yep, I'm in Canada. Yep, Target doesn't ship to Canada. Yep, I am having this shipped to my parents. Yep, I am having my parents ship it to me. I'm not going to let shipping get in my way of some pretties. Here is what I scored after trying to get on the website for over 3 hours.

8 of these...

and 16 of these...

There was a lot more I wanted but by 11am there was a long list of great items with 'out of stock' attached to the pic. Oh well, I guess I will just have to have a little party once the pretties above arrive, that will make up for it! Mel xo

Project Updates

2011-09-12T06:15:00.000-06:00

Remember these? Yeah, it has been awhile. Let me get all of you caught up on what is going on in our world.

{Altadore I}

I posted my inspiration for this home HERE the other day and I am so excited about the decisions that have been made so far. On the site the framing has started and they should be starring the second level of the home this week. Not sure on the exterior colors yet, I think I am going to go more grey not as poop brown like you see below.

For the faucets, I decided on the Kohler Purist in Vibrant Brushed Bronze, they are the starting point for me...this one is going to be fun!

{Altadore II}

Drawings are done and we have submitted them into the city for approval. SUPER excited for the kitchen layout that we came up with, it is large and in charge! While the exterior is similar to Altadore I the interior will be quite different, a bit more traditional with the finishing.

{Hillhurst}

This is a custom single family home that we are building for a younger family. So far we have tackled the plumbing selections and the preliminary kitchen drawings. The framers are cracking away and will be ready for the roof tomorrow...excited to help these clients make this their dream home!

The bath faucets that were selected, the Delta Dryden.

{Lynx Ridge}

The Lynx home is trucking along. This has been a fun home to do since the clients wanted a very traditional feel to the home. Lots of wood, dark stain, dark marble and granite. I will admit it has been a bit of a challenge since we have been working on such contemporary homes as of late but that is why I love what I do...I am challenged each and every day. I want every home to reflect the owner not myself.

The wet bar in the lower level is getting the finishing touched on the curved bulk-head.

The main great room has 27' vaulted ceilings, custom alder built-ins, & alder beams.

One of the offices on the main level has a custom built-in, but it is the flooring and ceiling that are going to be the features in this room...that will be revealed when it is done.

The railing is being installed on the main staircase in the home, curved alder stringer, & open maple riser treads. All of the wood work throughout the home is alder, even the mud room lockers below.

The kitchen is quite large, with an island that is over 10' long and 5' wide.

So that is where we are at. I am starting the design for Altadore III this week and we are working on a few more things as well...there will be lots coming your way very soon!! Hope you have a lovely weekend. Mel xo

ten years

2011-09-11T06:00:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that it has been 10 years, it feels like yesterday doesn't it? I still remember the call from my mother telling me a plane had hit the building. Like everyone I was completely overrun with emotions, paralyzed in-front of the televisions hoping in one way or another that everything would be OK...I spent hours, days in fact glued to the coverage, it is something that I will never forget.

via laughing squid

I had left the city 5 months prior to 9/11, it was my home for a few years. I loved living there, it was home. The people made it, the vibe kept me going, the life, oh the life, the possibilities it offered, the fact that I was living the dream. I recall standing on 5th ave & 16th street outside of the Banana Republic I worked at when I first moved there, looking down I would see the World Trade Center and looking up the street I would see the Empire State building, I would say to myself, and to others at times, 'I can't believe I live here, me, Melissa from Missouri is living in Manhattan!'

via Flicker

I have only been back once since I moved. When I was visiting I went down to Ground Zero and it was overwhelming to say the least, the raw emotions I felt and those of the people that surrounded me made the experience that much more. NYC is a city that cannot and will not be broken, no matter what others will try to do this city is strong, alive, and a force. I love you NYC. Mel xo

Altadore I insperation

2011-09-08T05:30:00.003-06:00

Working on getting this home put together. It is at framing stage so let the creativity run. Here are a few of the things going into the home...

Dark rooms here & there

via DecorPad

Black Interior Doors

via Holly Mathis

2 Tone Windows

via Tumbler

Mitered Island Wrap

via RueMag

Open Shelving

via my own

Brass Accents

via Kohler, Delta, Visual Comfort, & Hickory

Open Riser Stairs

via Boston Lofts

I'm pretty excited about this project & I can't wait to share the updates with you. Oh, and the best part? There is going to be an Altadore II & Altadore III, all individual and unique, I love inner city living! Mel xo

Recipe: Quick pasta salad

2011-09-07T08:20:00.000-06:00

Here is a great quick, easy, and tasty recipe. Lately I have been all about ease since we have had company, tons of work to catch up on, and the house to deal with. Needless to say this has been a staple in the fridge for a quick side dish.

1 lb bow tie pasta

4 C. fresh baby arugula

2 C. grape tomatoes cut in half

1/2 C. toasted walnuts

1/2 C. crumbled blue cheese

3 T. good extra virgin olive oil

3 T. white wine vinegar

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. pepper

Boil pasta to instructions. Once it is cooked add to a bowl with the fresh arugula, mix well, cover with plastic wrap. After the arugula is wilted (about 5 min.) add in the tomatoes & walnuts and toss well. Mix the olive oil with the vinegar and add the salt & pepper, drizzle over salad and mix in the blue cheese. Serve at room temp or chilled.

Seriously, how easy is that?! Hope you enjoy!! Mel xo

Who's gonna get a new VC light??

2011-09-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

So who is going to get a new Visual Comfort light?

The winner of the $200 credit towards any Visual Comfort light is...drum-roll please!

Who is #3 you ask, it is Cara from Lilac & Grey! Congratulations my dear, I am so excited to see what lovely you pick for your place!!

And remember, if any of you want help selecting and ordering up some wonderful lights from Visual Comfort drop me a line. I would love to help you!! Have a great weekend! Mel xo

Cozy up...

2011-08-31T07:55:00.000-06:00

Yesterday and today it has been rainy and cool here (in the 50'sF). When the wind blows it makes the loose leafs dance off of our trees in the back...fall is coming, I can feel it. As soon as I saw this image below I knew I was ready for the season to change.

via tumbler

Are you ready for fall?? Mel xo

**Don't forget to enter my Visual Comfort giveaway!!!**

Find me on Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest...I get around.

Sofa tables

2011-08-30T08:12:00.000-06:00

With the new furnishings in our home we have come to the conclusion that we need new tables to work with and flow with the upholstered items we have now. While I love our Henredon console it is too tall and a touch too wide for the location, so the hunt continues. I am loving the images below for inspiration...

via pinterest

Absolutely love this table...

via google

via funky junk

Here are a few loveys that I have found over the past few days while searching.

via restoration hardware

via Arteriors

via Currey & Co

via Hooker

I am leaning towards the table form Currey & Co mostly since it is the narrowest, at only 16" deep I know it will not get in the way...but I am going to keep looking, I would love to find an antique from Indo somewhere. If you have seen any great options out there be sure to let me know, my sourcing time for frivolous items is non-existent right now. Mel xo

**Don't forget to enter my Visual Comfort giveaway!!!**

Find me on Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest...I get around.

Mud Room: Take 2

2011-08-29T05:00:00.000-06:00

Needing to make some selections for the mud room since I am going in a different direction than my first concept. Here is what I had originally thought of doing, looking back now I am very happy with rejecting it and making some tweaks here & there.

The first item I changed was the floor. From a black slate to Jura Grey Limestone, adore it.

It is OH SO pretty!

Then I read the reviews for the Antropologie rug I wanted and they were less than favorable for such a high traffic area. Most of the reviews said it was very thin and even with a rug pad it didn't stay in place, so bye bye lovely rug.

Next to be rejected was the fabric. While they were great options at a ridiculously great price they all had a bit too much brown in them, more noticeable when I got my samples in the mail.

The 3 Hicks pendents from Visual Comfort made the cut, of course! If Mr. Customs Man ever lets them out of his hands they will be hung up this week (hopefully Thursday, fingers crossed).

We went with 4 'lockers' in this space with a seating bench in the middle. To make it more durable with the boys I had the finishers make the top of the built-in out of solid alder and stained it to match the rest of the wood work in the home. We also added 2 bind atop each space for large baskets and drawers for additional shoe/gloves/scarf/boot storage.

As you can see from the pics above it has that 'just moved in & haven't done jack' with it vibe. I am waiting till the lights are up to make any firm decisions on what to do to spice up this room. Until then I will let my brain go into overdrive every time I walk in the mud room. I do have my seamstress coming by on Wednesday to drop off some goodies she made for the home, I would love to give her the fabric for the bench cushion & accent pillows at the same time. Here is what I am left with, trying to make a decision on the accent pillows which will lead me in the direction for the rest of the space. Accent color, decor items, the fun stuff.

{option a}

{option b}

{option c}

What ever I pick will end up being the anchor for the room and the starting point for the deign. So tell me, what are your thoughts, a, b, or c?? I would love to hear!! Mel xo

**Don't forget to enter my Visual Comfort giveaway!!!**

Find me on Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest...I get around.

Favorite tidbits...

2011-08-26T05:00:00.003-06:00

Here are a few favorite tidbits of the new house. I know a lot of you would love for me to plaster the blog with images showing every nook & cranny...but until I feel that it is ready you are going to have to enjoy little glimpse here and there. I guess you could blame it on my fear of having unfinished images roaming around the internet, silly, I know. So here are a few of my favorite spots in the home...

{window seat}

Honestly this is one of the most used places in our main level. Since it is 8' wide x 4' deep there is room for all of us, great for reading, perfect for a nap, and additional seating when we entertain.

On the seat you can see some pillows, that is just some of the fabric I picked up today for my seamstress to doctor up, here are some close ups along with what my plans are for them...

{my closet}

I finally received (after the hubs misplacing it) my monogrammed pillow from Luxury Monograms & I just adore it! The fabric and embroidery color work perfect with the pink wall color. Still need to organize this space and decorate it...but hey, that pretty much describes the entire home!

{kitchen bits}

A favorite part of the kitchen is the window area. The Visual Comfort Boston Functional lights in antique nickel that are over the window are amazing. The finish compliments the veining in the marble so well and the black interior of the windows tie it all together.

And then the corner drawers, such a wicked use of space. While it was a challenge to put all 3,892 pieces together so they could be a reality it was so worth it. I know this is going to be a feature that all of our future clients will be requesting.

So there will be your fix for the week, I hope. The Hubs and I are planing on tackling the lower level of the house this weekend, lots to do but that is the fun space where the gym, wine cellar, and rec room are located. Fingers crossed we are productive!! Enjoy your weekend as well. Mel xo

**Don't forget to enter my Visual Comfort giveaway!!!**

Your questions answered

2011-08-25T05:00:00.001-06:00

I have been meaning to do this for awhile now, so here it goes, your questions answered...

Post: Oh bloggers, how you inspire...

Question:

Answer:

The range hood is constructed of stainless steel and the base frame & corbels are constructed of MDF and lacquered to match the rest of the kitchen cabinets.

Post: Vesta Accents

Question:

Answer:

No, but we are working to bring Vesta to Canada! We hope to have something worked out in the next month or two. Stay tuned!!

Post: Wexford II Images

Question:

Answer:

The doors were lacquered using Pratt & Lambert Anubis 32-17

Question:

Answer:

The wall color is Pratt & Lambert Rubidoux 32-23 and the ceiling & trim color is Benjamin Moore Steam AF-15

Questions:

Answer:

The counter-top in the Jack & Jill bathroom is called Striaato Olimpico and it is marble, a natural beauty!!

Question:

Answer:

All trim & ceilings along with the master bathroom were painted Benjamin Moore Steam AF-15. The main color throughout the home is Benjamin Moore Collingwood OC-28. The cabinets were a labor of love, a custom stain that took many attempts before being right.

Post: New items for the home...

Question:

Answer:

It is still a work in progress, just got home and still need to unpack, but I do love this chair and this space!

Post: Pantry Love

Question:

Answer:

Our pantry is 6' 4" wide & 8' deep with 10' tall ceilings

I always try to answer as many questions as I can, if you every want the answer to something quickly simply leave your e-mail address in your comment or send me an email at melissa (at) verandaestatehomes (dot) com. Thanks so much, I always love the comments from all of you! Mel xo

**Don't forget to enter my Visual Comfort giveaway!!!**

Giveaway: Visual Comfort

2011-08-24T05:00:00.007-06:00

So I have posted before about my love for all things Visual Comfort, in fact most of the lights in our new home are from VC and I just adore all of them. So what a better way to share this love than to offer a $200 credit towards any fixture(s) from Visual Comfort!

Here are the rules & terms...

Become a follower = 1 entry (if you already are let me know please!)
Leave a comment & let me know what fixture you would love to see in your home
Giveaway is open until Thursday 6pm EST September 1st
Open to US & Canadian residence only
Winner will be selected using Random.org
Must purchase the light through myself

Additional ways to win...

Tweet it & follow me on Twitter= 1 entry, spread the news for another chance to win
Blog it = 1 entry, mention the giveaway on the blog for another
Facebook it & follow me on Facebook= 1 entry, share the love with your friends
Tattoo it = just don't, HA!

Now unfortunately Visual Comfort does not have a web site for the public, but you can simply Google 'Visual Comfort Lights' and you will be sent to a few sites that have the full line.

If you are interested in ordering any items from Visual Comfort feel free to drop me a line, I would love to help you select the right fixtures for your home!

So that's the deal, best of luck & I will reveal the winner on Friday (September 2nd). Good luck all and I can't wait to see what the winner selects!! Mel xo

Heading home...

2011-08-23T05:00:00.001-06:00

Where did this summer go?! I can not believe that we are already on a plane heading home, 2 months at the cabin went by so fast. While I will admit that for the past few days I have been a tad bit giddy about getting home. While we have been gone all of the new furniture has been delivered, the rest of the lights have been delivered, and the exterior stone work & landscaping has begun...there is so much to see! Do not fret, I will share with you, I promise. Until then here are some snapshots from our summer.

There was fishing...

Bike rides...

Cute animals to hang with...

Cousins to play with...

Brothers that chilled...

And I did manage to get some things done around the cabin. From the entry wall...

To the stairwell...

And even refinished a chair...

All in all it was another great summer with the family, now it is time to detox, get back on a schedule, and back to work...we have a LOT coming up in the next little bit, including 5 new homes to get in the ground! Good times ahead. Mel xo

Oh, and be sure to come back tomorrow, I have having a HUGE giveaway. A hint? It lights the room as you chose.

Head on over...

2011-08-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

If you want to see where we have been hiding all summer be sure to head over to Haven and Home today. I am very excited to participate in Marianne's series Love The One You're With!

Happy Monday all!! Mel xo

Oh bloggers, how you inspire...

2011-08-17T05:00:00.003-06:00

I was going through some old post on the ol' blog and I came across the image below, it was my inspiration for the new home...

via Southern Living

And this is what I ended up doing...

image my own

It amazes me day after day how all of the blogs I read on a daily basis and all of your comments / feedback inspire me. Thank you for making my home such a stunner if I do say so myself. We are heading back home in a week from the cabin and I am so ready to get my hands on the new pad so I can get it decorated and ready to share. Regular posting starting up again real soon, promise. Mel xo

Simply Stunning...

2011-08-13T07:02:00.000-06:00

via Essence of the Good Life

BTW, I'm making THIS for dessert tonight, have you tried it yet? Mel xo