YELLOW FEVER

I want to paint something!  I came across this gorgeous yellow desk that was surely a thrift find.  The paint job is superb!  They had to have used a spray paint machine.  If you recall, I'm creating a new look for my home office and I am just getty over this desk.  While, I'm pretty sure that I don't want to paint my desk yellow (I think!), I am still very inspired by the actual desk and the quality of the paint job.  Note to self, "Acquire spray paint machine".

This desk should really be in my office, but I digress.

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

OLYMPICS INSPIRED

I personally would take any medal or better yet, all of them.  Let’s even add a fourth medal……..copper…….lol!  Get inspired by the medals of the Olympics and mix it up!  Have fun and add gold, silver, bronze, and copper mix accessories to spice it up!

Just metal crazy and soo much fun!  I have a couple of pieces I'm ready to whip out!

Until  tomorrow…….

D Leigh Gray

Click image for credit

"SUMMER CHIC" DONE RIGHT!!

Who says “Summer Chic” has to be a dress?

I live in the South and it is super hot and super humid.  Now I love maxi dresses way more than the next woman, but today I’m feeling more laid back.  A bit “French”, if I say so myself.   This is my summer chic for the weekend and I’m sticking to it.  Okay, so minus the belt.  But, with a pair of heels and dainty accessories, and fresh-faced make-up……………….now, I’m sticking to it!

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Hip, hip hooray for more chic summer shorts!

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Whew, it's safe to say, chic summer shorts done right! 

Happy Friday!

D Leigh Gray

Credit (1,  2,  3,  4,  5 )

WANNA KNOW HOW TO GET A "DESIGNER LOOK" IN YOUR LIVING SPACE?

Want more of a designer look , but you live in cookie cutter apartment or home.  Let’s discuss this issue regarding your living room/area, shall we?  If you’re wanting your space to feel more cozy, more glam, more designer then you’ll want to master the art of personalizing and layering.  Ok, so maybe not master, but become really familiar with these techniques for a more cohesive look.  A little research never hurt anybody.
If you’re renting however, you’ll really want to consult with management to be clear on the limitations of your lease.  This space is not owned by you, so the final say will not be yours. 

Personalizing items in your cookie-cutter is the first way to lose some of the starkness that come with these box type spaces.  Some of first things we did after moving into our cookie-cutter was paint the walls, change linoleum tile to ceramic tile in the kitchen and bathrooms, replace all cheap hardware, and then replace all the cheap light fixtures, inside and out. 

Now, the décor ……..so of course, you’ll start with your base layer which includes selecting the correct size furniture and its’ placement (this assuming that you have the walls painted or covered, lighting installed, and flooring that you prefer).  Next, there is selection and placement of rugs, coffee tables, end tables, sofa tables, desks, chairs, bar carts and entertainment pieces.  These first two steps are simply laying the foundation for everything else.  These placements don’t have to be final, but you will now have a clear starting point.  There will be plenty of time for editing.  Even designers, change the plan or they’ll rework things that didn’t quite play out as they had plan.  A good designer usually has a plan, so you should also.  The next layer will include window coverings, lamps, baskets, wall art, stools, and pillows.  Lastly, you want to finish the space with trays, coffee table books, décor accessories, fresh flowers or plants, and throws.  Texture variation plays an important role in layering and creating ambiance and atmosphere.  I’m not trying to get too serious here, but I do want you to be able to see how this process can benefit you or someone you know. 

With all these things comes “function”.  One can’t simply dwell on “the pretty”.  Always keep in mind how you, your family, and friends use the space.  You can store DVD’s in a wicker basket or lacquered box.  A trunk under a sofa/console table can store blankets, throws and toys.
 
With the pics below, visualize how the personalization and layering process works.

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Now, can’t you see yourself creating a chic and functional living area?  I’ll be honest, not a ton of pictures of great design with cookie-cutter homes……..sorry!

However, to expand on this topic further stay tuned for future posts such as:  Creating Fabulous Foyers, Mixing Textures, Update that cookie-cutter fireplace

Other ideas to personalize:  Add wall sconces, Replace frame less mirrors in the bathroom, Add closet systems, Move away from "matchy, matchy furniture"

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

Credits:  1 ElleDecor  2 Firstsense  3 Houzz  4 Decoratingblog.net   5 Jan Showers

TO WRITE OR NOT TO WRITE

In this ever changing and ever progressing digital age, some just don’t take the time to send handwritten cards.  The thought behind a written note is endearing in itself.  It always touches my insides  when I receive a handwritten note…………….even if it is thank you note for their wedding gift.  For me, it starts with the paper.  I simply luv to touch and feel thick card stock.  The look should be eye-catching to you, the purchaser.  Choose what you consider stylish and chic.  Then, select a pen that showcases your handwriting at its’ best.  A pen is a pen, is a pen…………NOT!
Just take the time to write someone today about anything.  They will so appreciate the time you took to write and mail the sentiment spoken in the handwritten note. 

There is absolutely no science to this.  A handwritten note is just an absolutely great way to send personal thoughts!  It's just icing on the cake to do so on fabulous paper.

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

Click images for credit.

PERFECTLY IMPERFECT!

Boy is it a Monday!  However, today, I will simply chalk it up to "Life".  A few things went wrong with the blog post this morning, but hey, things happen!  After trying for quite some time to get the post up, I have decided that maybe for some reason it wasn't suppose to be up today.  Any who, it is what it is and I shall keep on keeping on.

Please return tomorrow for your regularly scheduled program.  What is that you say? 

Interior design ideas that incorporate the best vintage and antique finds, chic stationery, and bits of fashion........of course!

In the meantime, follow me on Twitter @SouthandGray !

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

YOU'RE INVITED TO LOUNGEFEST!

This Friday has me thinking that lounging here would be just a bit of heaven.  This space is completely functional which is super important when you have kids.  An evening of drinks with girlfriends is also a great option.  I want an outdoor living space............honey are you listening?

JOSYLN TAYLOR



Happy Friday!

D Leigh Gray

CHANGE IS GOOD.............RIGHT?

I am truly looking for ways to help me come out of my good ol' cozy comfort zone.  It's so easy to get there and stay there because you believe that this is "just the way I am".  Now more than ever, the comfort zone is just way too safe.  Everywhere I look I see "YOLO" (you only live once).  How true......how true......how true!  So again, still trying to not be so serious all the time..........even with this darn post.  I'm looking for inspiration for my home office and I'm on the hunt for some bad ass wallpaper, super chic gold elements, and corky decor items.  Oddly enough, I'm talking about fashion also.  Bold prints in tops, bottoms, and dresses.  Gold and corky shoes and accessories to compliment it all.  Okay, so it's not about jumping out of a plane or painting my car pink, but it is a start............right?

 FURBISH HOME STUDIO

EMILY GILBERT

FROM AINSLEY WITH LOVE

JENNY KOMENDA

ADDICTED 2 CANDI

FOOTLUXE

SHOW AND TELL ME

THE ACCIDENTAL MRS

YOUR TREND STYLE

So just bit of boldness inspiration.  I'm really feeling all of these looks!  A lil something different, throw-back, and fun.  Change is good..............right?

Until tomorrow........

D Leigh Gray
(Please continue to bear with me as I make this blog completely functional.  Everything is a process.)

HUNGRY FOR EYE CANDY?

I came across the fashion illustrator Megan Hess and I want to scream that I am in super crush mode.  Her illustrations are simply phenomenal!  These are definitely prints that I want need to put in my office.  However, not just Megan has this incredible talent.  Hayden Williams, Brooke Hagel, Bree Leman and Arturo Elena are also so very talented.  So much so, they are able to make a living sketching these absolutely delicious illustrations. The list just goes on and on.   Man, I wish I could draw, and sing, and act, and…………………..oops sorry.  Anyway, just open up; here come the goodies!

MEGAN HESS

BROOKE HAGEL

HAYDEN WILLIAMS

BREE LEMAN

ARTURO ELENA

Ummmm, that was so good!

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

SETTEE YOUR BUTT DOWN

I luv, luv, luv myself a Settee…………… especially a French one or French inspired! 

set·tee pronounced /seˈtē/

They are simply the cutest little seating area possible.  You can’t just put a Settee anywhere….no, no, no.  I’m thinking a chic office space, boutique, foyer, master bedroom, or a killer closet.  You definitely want to place one where respect (not worship service) is given to furniture; so not the den so much.  Also, all Settees are not created equal.  I on one hand prefer the lines of French made, however there are others out there that may suit you just the same.  We’ll definitely have to revisit this topic and go more in-depth.  The Settee deserves it!  LOL!  Just kidding, it’s not that serious.  The following is not intended to reflect all available style Settees.  Enjoy........... I know I will.

 

·         Yellow and white – Houzz.com

·         White & Tan Stripe – HouseandHome.com

·         Cobalt Blue & White – Knightmovesblog.blogspot.com

·         Red & Multi-Stripe – Metrosofa.com

·         Black & White Stripe – Pinterest

·         Silk, Burnt Orange – Theregencyfurniture.com

·         Zebra – Habitat, LTD Antiques

·         Cream – CopycatChic.com

·         Modern Red & White – Tricomi Home on Etsy

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

BRING IN THE COCKS!

S & G rule for today – Incorporating a trend does not always have to be so literal.  The peacock theme items below are subtle and sophisticated ways to update current décor or to bring into a new décor plan.  I chose peacocks because it is a “somewhat” dated décor theme.  I also included fashion items and stationery.  Hey, some people really like what they like.  They often tend to think that there are no rules in this case.   However some tend to go overboard when incorporating “themed” décor.  Sometimes, less is more and also less embarrassing.

     
Credit

1. Clutch, Barneys
2. Heels, Wedding Bee
3. Abstract Art, Fine Art America
4. Rug, Fab
5. Pillow, Woodyliana via Etsy
6. Vintage Inspired Brass Wall Peacock, Curtis Jere
7. Note cards, The Museum Stationery Store
8. Ceramic Canister, Decorpad
9. Compact Mirror, Swisslady
10. Mirror, Wisteria
11. Bow, Crate and Barrel

Until tomorrow……

D Leigh Gray

OFFICE INSPIRATION

HAPPY FRIDAY!
Just a few pics of chic office design for inspiration for my home office "do over" and also for your viewing pleasure.

The Nate Show

Diane Bergeron

Studio Ten 25

Saudah Saleem’s

Enjoy your weekend!

Until next time…….

Dwaynia Leigh Gray 

NO MORE BIG BOX FOR MY COOKIE CUTTER

Okay, so my first home/starter home is as cookie cutter as a cookie cutter.  I mean absolutely no character.  Not unless you count the maybe 8 ft of chair rail in the kitchen eating area.  But that’s it.  Honestly, we did personalize this space as much as we could in the seven years that we’ve been here.
 
Now design wise, I have truly grown.  I tend to now fancy pieces that give a space character and depth as well as houses with some great architectural details.  I now know the importance of scale and function.  I have definitely moved past the matchy, matchy furniture phase from big chain stores.  Yet and still it’s not realistic at this point to replace it all at once.  So, I guess this means that I’ll have to do one room at a time starting with..........

MY OFFICE! (That's so odd, I thought I heard angels singing?)



Isn't it sad.....lol!

 

This one also.

My creative juices were swooning long before I started this blog. It just so happens that my unemployment status since February 2012, gave me the “time” to explore them.  So now that I am happily immersed in Blogland; a fresh workspace will certainly boost and possibly enhance my creative flow.  I'll be sure to update you with my progress. 

Until tomorrow……

D Leigh Gray

BOOKS SMOOKS

Some of the most stunning interiors can be created with the best old….ehem, I mean vintage finds.  However, you must be careful!  There is quite a difference between “Vintage” and “Plan ol’ Old" (more on that topic in an upcoming post).
 
Now moving on………two individuals and their books in particular, have my attention when it comes to using vintage to complete their awesome visions.
 
Let's chat about Vintage Remix by Kishani Perera.  Kishani displays how to seamlessly combine vintage with modern furnishings.  She is also the owner of Rummage, a furniture boutique in L.A.   Her design aesthetic is great.  I catch myself in a focused daze attempting to salute all the important little details that bring about a cohesive design.  Bravo Kishani!

    

Troy House 

Jean Randazzo

House Beautiful via LoveLifeandluxury.com

Then the very pleasant surprise from Lara Spencer of Good Morning America.  I caught her show on HGTV’s,  I Brake for Yard Sales.  By the end of the show, I catch a glimpse of her book by the same title place neatly on her girlfriend’s end table (Yay for the shamless plug!).  Again, a very pleasant surprise regarding her skill level of interior design and incorporation of vintage and thrift finds.  Go Lara!

Photo Michael McNamara

Photo Michael McNamara via Redbook Mag

Photo Michael McNamara via Redbook Mag

Both books were released earlier this year, but they still have great photos for your viewing pleasure.  Still inspiring.  Enjoy!

Until next time……….

D Leigh Gray