Mother's Day Thoughts

I wanted to wish you all a very Happy Mothers Day!

I was blessed first with a beautiful little girl! When I took her home I was so overwhelmed with love (and panic). How would I know what to do?? But we found our way. She is growing up; and has found her voice and strength. She is turning into the most amazing person...

And then my son came along, more overwhelming love, and much less panic. Lots of singing, music and laughter....And he each day he amazes me with his empathy and his talents...

Now they are entering the teen years - and as I am sure many of you know, as a parent I am entering unknown territory. Keeping them traveling in the right direction - making the right decisions - the path isn't always clear.

But the greatest guide is love. I am truly a lucky lady with a wonderful family. My children, my husband and I laugh together almost every day. Our home is filled with smiles and and tremendous love.

I smell breakfast cooking, and hear a lot of commotion in the kitchen; so I am logging off to enjoy my wonderful day. May yours be as special...

xx-Gina

(photo credit Tim Evan Cook, Polly Wexford, Chris Everad)

Meet Rhoda!!

One of the greatest gifts of blogging is getting to know other bloggers. Forging these friendships has been a great fun and all the while I am learning! Learning about new items and trends, DIY projects, and blogging tips. I was lucky to recently meet Rhoda.

Rhoda writes the wonderful blog Southern Hospitality. She is a Design Consultant from Birmingham, AL who spends her time helping clients create a beautiful home with a lot of creativity and not a lot of money. Lets have a look at some of her popular posts:

One of my favorite projects is Rhoda's creative use of beadboard wallpaper. This special wallpaper is thick and a bit spongy. Once applied and painted, it wonderfully mimics wood beadboard. Rhoda takes all the guess work out of DIY projects. She guides you step by step to transform the cabinet above from this...

To this!!!

And, here is a larger picture of her finished kitchen. Rhoda gently teaches you with helpful tips, pointers and ideas - all with her southern belle charm that even gives the most wary northerner confidence!

She also posts links at the end of her DIY projects of readers who have sent her THEIR successes! Above is a photo from a reader, who after Rhoda's step by step beadboard tutorial, created this wonderful beadboard wainscoting in their master bedroom.

Another exciting project that caught my eye was Rhoda's stair transformation. She went from this...

To this!! What an incredible result!! Of course it looks expensive, but Rhoda finds ways to make these incredible renovations happen on a shoestring budget.

Need some extra architectural interest? Rhoda shows you how to add picture frame moulding to the dining room. Reading post after post I was learning so much and getting inspired!!

Painting furniture black also caught my eye as I have been contemplating painting some of Scandinavian pine pieces black. No need to search for a How To, just click on my friend, Rhoda's simple directions and I have confidence to take on the project.

Of course I could go on and on, but head over to Southern Hospitality and see for yourself. And while you are there tell Rhoda that Gina sent you!!

(all photos Southern Hospitality)

You are Invited (& it's Invitation Only!)

You are invited to an exciting event on May 6th!Remember my dear friend, Millie Gaines, the very talented interior designer from New Orleans? Well Millie is hosting the most amazing event!
It is a night of art and antiques bringing together the beautiful antiques of Tara Shaw And the gorgeous contemporary artwork of Michelle Y Williams. It is invitation only, but if you email Millie here and tell her you are a reader of Willow Decor, she'll make sure you can attend.
It's going to held at Tara Shaw's showroom in New Orleans, usually only open to the trade - but on May 6th you will be able to browse and buy just like an insider!Even more exiting is that Michelle Y Williams contemporary paintings will also be shown (and available). The antiques and the contemporary artwork perfectly compliment each other!!
You know I am so sad that I can't attend - but don't let that stop you. And Millie will be there to chat and help you with your design questions (plus, she is so fun!!) So don't hesitate to grab a friend and have a fabulous girls night out.
Here are the details: Cocktail Reception on Thursday, May 6th at 5 PM at Tara Shaw Antiques, 1240 Camp Street, New Orleans. Remember it's invitation only so email Millie to get on the list! And don't forget to send pictures to me of the treasures you will undoubtedly find!!
Finally, I was tagged by my bloggy friend, Ness, over at Marley & Lockyer to show you the 10th photo in my inspiration file. Well I have dozen of files, so I took the 10th photo from my Built in Bed file. This magical bed prompted this popular post on Built in Beds - you can read it here. Stop over to Marley& Lockyer, visit Ness and see what other great inspiration photos she has uncovered from other friends.
And have fun at the Michelle Williams Event at Tara Shaw Antiques. Give Millie a hug for me!
(Email Millie at mildredmaude@aol.com)

(all photos Tara Shaw, Michele Y Williams, Cote de Texas, Marie Claire Maison, Willow Decor)

Beautiful Kitchens from Sweden

I have the featured the beautiful Swedish kitchen design firm, Kvänum Kok in the past. They are a high end kitchen cabinet and design firm that is very well respected all over Scandinavia. They have some new designs, which are so beautiful, that I wanted to give you another peek. Take a look at this first gorgeous kitchen, with my favorite, white cabinetry. Though I think white cabinetry is the ultimate classic, some may say it is getting boring, as it seems to be featured more and more. This kitchen, though is anything but boring! Several elements take it from ordinary to extraordinary. First, lets look at the cabinets themselves. I have long favored the X cross upper cabinets, and actually used Kvänum Kok as my inspiration for my own kitchen. Read about my kitchen here. Second, I was actually stopped in my tracks by the beautiful backsplash tile. It reminds me of Delft antique tiles. On a wall that has no windows or interesting architectural features, it is amazing how tiles and cabinets can transform a boring, blank wall into the most gorgeous focal point.

Another key to this beautiful space is the wonderful light from the spectacular arched doors. Not all of us are able to incorporate such a stunning feature in our designs, but it is always important to note, how much beauty natural light can bring to a space. Finally the stove is striking. I am in love with stoves that also are works of art and this one is lovely.

Moving on to another kitchen, the one above is part of their newest line. Notice the upper cabinets have been replaced by open shelving. No upper cabinets seem to be a trend worldwide. To read more about this trend click here.

Though the kitchen is not huge by American standards, it is thoughtfully designed, including a freestanding butler's pantry, for extra dishes and glassware. Again light plays an important role with sun streaming in from two sides.

Here is the family room adjacent to the kitchen. Though not part of the kitchen space, I wanted to include it because it is such a pretty room. I love the beamed ceiling and horizontal beadboard walls. Notice the high shelf which acts a bookcase. Also the bleached wood floors which are distinctly Swedish. For more inspiration, read my previous posts on Kvänum Kok here or visit their website here.

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Finally congratulations Victoria at VictoriaArt -please email your mailing address so I can send you off the copy of Slow Love by Dominique Browning. Special thanks to Dominique for both the book and the wonderful interview which you can read here.

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(all photos property of Kvänum Kok )

Beautiful Baths, Creative Storage

Almost every one needs more storage in their bathroom. Perhaps we all need to get a bit more organized, but if you are clutter challenged like me, I wanted to show you some wonderful baths by designer, Molly Frey. You may remember a previous post on a fabulous coastal house by Molly here.

I love the bath above. Let's take a look at some of the elements that make this bath fantastic. First, the overall design with the sink sitting upon an open turquoise glass tiled cabinet - a perfect spot for storing extra towels. The wall mirror is framed out with sconces adding the perfect lighting.

A capiz shell chandelier adds a bit of whimsy to the space. I imagine the french doors lead you outdoors to a secluded hot tub - wishful thinking? I also love symmetry and this bath is a great example.

Of course Molly's marble baths are what generally catch my eye. Here is lovely example that was published in Traditional Home Magazine. The middle cabinet is open - again a nice spot for baskets or extra towel storage. Notice that the cabinets have "feet" to give the sink base the illusion of free standing furniture. I also love the sconce in this bath.

The tub is tucked under the eaves of the home in front of a gorgeous window and next to it we see another area for storage.

Here is a more streamlined, contemporary feeling bath. Two small boxes topped with limestone add the additional storage here. By not putting small doors on these, the look stays very open and contemporary - Interesting!

A more traditional design also shows you some ways to increase storage. Here the cabinets flanking the pedestal sinks sit directly on the counters. Unlike a kitchen, counter space in the bath can be more narrow to support your toiletries. The small ledge behind the sinks also add a space for lotions and creams.
Here we see a shallow medicine cabinet with mirrored doors built into the design. Not only is this cabinet functional, it becomes a wonderful focal point. This bath also has "feet" on the cabinet base.
The final bath has this cute little cabinet on the left side. A great spot for a razor and shaving cream - or perhaps it hides electric outlets and a blow dryer.

Above are several ideas to add a bit storage to your bath. To check out more of Molly Frey's work click here to her website or here to her blog!

(all photos property of Molly Frey)

A Home for the Vellum Book & New Giveaway!

What a wonderful surprise to hear from Donna of The Decorated House house today. Donna was the winner of the Vellum Book so generously donated by Kym Fraser of 3 Fine Grains.

It has found a lovely home among Donna's other antique books and I think it looks stunning!! You can read all about the book's new home here. Congratulations again, Donna!

And, don't forget enter to win Dominique Browning's new book Slow Love. Head over to her blog, slow love life, and come back to WD and leave a comment! We will announce a winner on Sunday!! Read more about Dominique's exclusive interview with WD here!

Exclusive Interview with Dominique Browning & Giveaway!

We are so fortunate to be able to speak to Dominique Browning, former editor of House & Garden Magazine!

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Since House & Garden, Dominique has been very busy writing books and recently joined the world of blogging. Her new book, Slow Love - how I lost my job, put on my pajamas and found happiness, is a wonderful touching memoir of her journey after leaving House & Garden and her steps toward self discovery. With thoughtful, honest insights she shares her struggle toward self awareness and peace. You celebrate her small triumphs, and share her fears as she moves forward into new, uncharted territory. Traveling along with her you are able to also slow down and rediscover the wonder and beauty of the world around us. Her words resonated so strongly with me that I just couldn't put the book down. I loved it!

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So imagine how thrilled I was when Dominique was able to share with us a few more of her thoughts and insights on design and enjoying the process.

WD: You have been watching home design trends for many years. What do you consider timeless and classic?

DB: I've decided it doesn't have to do with style or period--things Baroque and things ultra modern can be classic. It has to do with integrity: things well made, and designs to themselves, fully exploring and expressing what they are. So, an elegant modern sofa by Billy Baldwin looks great now, and did fifty years ago. And works in a contemporary room, or in a room full of Fine French Furniture. WD: What is the most favorite room in your home -what details make it so special to you?

DB: Any room that has books in it, and a comfortable place to read. The details I crave: a table near a chair for that cup of tea or glass of wine. A soft, thick throw for my knees, or around my shoulders. A jewel of a pillow to brighten the air, and fabric that is not scratchy or irritating. And, finally, what I call an intimate landscape nearby--some small configuration of vase, sculpture, stone or bird's nest--anything, found or precious or both, that your eye can rest on, and your imagination can wander over.

WD: What are your favorite places to find inspiration for both your home and garden?

DB: I LOVE consignment shops, and have found treasures galore in what people are casting off, particularly if they happen to be in wealthier neighborhoods!

WD: With the struggling economy and many home owners having to stay longer in their homes than they may have wanted; what advice would you give to them regarding refreshing their spaces?

DB: Staying longer in a home would never be my problem! The longer you are home, the better your house becomes. Keep adding things you love, and they don't have to be purchased. They can be found objects, from walks in the woods or on the beach. Of course, an ever-changing pile of photography books goes a long way. And so does simply reupholstering ONE armchair. Or, getting a new set of towels in a vibrant color that you never would have used before. Amazing how small things make a big difference.

WD: How have you made the transition from critiquing rooms to really enjoying them?

DB: I have always enjoyed my rooms, and I'm still critiquing rooms! Just silently, muttering under my breath! WD: So often I hear from friends and clients "I just want to get this room done!" What tips can you share to help us enjoy the process as well as the outcome?

DB: First, start ripping pages out of magazines, pages with ideas that catch your eye. Don't edit yourself ahead of time. If your pulse quickens, rip. Then look at what you've got, find shared themes, and head in that direction. NEVER keep working with someone who makes you feel insecure, dumb, frightened or confused. FIRE AWAY! Don't wait for a crisis. This is when breaking up is easy to do. And enjoy it at your own pace--some people need to work slowly, one piece at a time. Others want that "magic wand" feeling--everything done at once. Stay true to yourself. And do not let yourself get talked into living with something you don't like. You wouldn't do that with a partner, would you? So why would an armchair be any easier?

WD: One of the many themes in your new book is your fear of change and the unknown. What words of advice do you have for others who share those fears, and how can they make fear become a positive catalyst?

DB: Don't run from fear--that's what I learned hardest. Stay with it, examine it, look deep into that dark heart. And start learning and changing. I have some bad habits (like always beating up on myself, internally--that horrid little voice that says nothing is good enough) and those habits kept me in a semi-fearful state. So I have had to literally talk myself through them, and train myself to change my ways of thinking.

WD: What are the most important things you have learned about yourself while writing your new book and blog?

DB: I LOVE blogging! I resisted it for years and years, back in HG days! I guess I just wasn't ready for it. So I learned something very important, both in my new online writing and in writing the book. Don't hold back. Life is short. Make the most of whatever gives you pleasure.

One of things I have missed the most from House & Garden is Dominique's Editorial Letters. I am so thrilled that her new blog, slow love life brings her conversations and touching insights back to us again.

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As I mentioned, Slow Love, is a wonderful book! We are so fortunate that Dominique has given Willow Decor a copy for one of our readers. (or you can purchase it here) Just visit her new blog, slow love life, and come back here and leave a comment. Next Sunday I will choose a random comment and send off the book. I know you will enjoy both her blog and her book as much as I have.

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Finally a very special thank you to Dominique Browning for sharing her time and thoughts with us! So thrilled she part of the blog family!!
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(Photo credit: NY Times, House & Garden,Coastal Living, Iowa Garden, House & Garden AU)