100th Post

Hard to believe I've hit my 100th post! I've certainly lost my diligence over the past few months, but I hope to continue blogging about all things home-related. Thanks for continuing to check in!

I don't have any cashmere throws, luxury rugs or cookie recipes to share today, as I think this post should perhaps have a little more substance. When I first started this blog a year ago, I was just emerging into the professional world of interior design and everything within it excited me. The homes, the furniture, fabrics, accessories........it all made life feel a little more glamorous, and it still does.

I am certainly in no position to dole out advice, and at twenty-four, there are many things I thought I would have achieved that are yet to be checked off. We can all be a little hard (and unrealistic) on ourselves, but here are some thoughts since I pursued this amazing field:

Go after what you're passionate about. If you hate your job and know what you want to do, go do it (come on, we've all been there...). It will never be any easier to go for it (you won't be richer, happier or less stressed). Take a chance, round up your greatest supporters and give it 110%. You won't get a bonus gift at your retirement for doing a job you hated for 30 years.

And that's what I think about that. Happy 100th!

His First Place

It seems that in the "Standard Book of Life" (rolls eyes), years after learning to ride a bike, having a first crush, graduating high school, being a frat boy and getting a full-time job, every man must establish himself in his first place.

A bachelor pad is certainly no place for Aunt Edna's hand-me-down sofa and salvaged lamps from the curb. It's a place where beer and nachos will be devoured on Sundays, Chinese take-out will be eaten after a long day at the office and of course, where the magic happens. For some men, it may even be their last shot at decorating before assuming a man cave in the basement. Whichever the case, here are a few manly accessories and words of advice for making a bachelor pad a home.

Think long term. Yes, it's hard to believe that your hard partying ways may some day dwindle, but avoid spending money on novelty pieces that may not outlast these days. A classic lamp or good quality sofa is likely something you'll take with you.





Get comfortable with your artsy side. Hang a unique mirror on the wall, frame a few photographs or buy a piece of art that speaks to you. Avoid all temptations to re-hang that Metallica poster and consider more sophisticated and personal options.


Revisit your College Pro days. If you're able to paint the walls and are craving some colour, you've hit the bachelor jackpot for trendy paint colours. Navy blues, light grays, charcoals, leafy greens and bright whites will add depth, contrast and testosterone to your home. If painting isn't an option, use these colours in toss cushions or bedding to warm up the space.









Gone are the days of Mom returning from Home Outfitters with a new comforter, but I think even the most boyish bachelors can have fun making their place home.

Photographs from The Cross Design, West Elm, Currey and Company, Arteriors Home, ROMO, etc.

Partial to Pretty

Small crystal chandeliers. Fresh Flowers. Ruffles and sweet details. Lately, I'm attracted to all things pretty.


I've always gravitated towards pretty spaces, and I'm glad it's made a comeback in the design world. Flipping through home magazines and catalogs, there is a real air of softness. Small floral printed bedding and lace are soft and romantic, and remind me of the rosette patterns I wore as a little girl (the days of Strawberry Shortcake).

I think pink is still the prettiest colour for a little girl's room, despite many mother's refusals. I feel I turned out okay in mine.

(I finally bought this duvet...simple, but pretty)

I also love pale wall colours and soft white bedding. Pretty makes life a little softer and sweeter, and I'm glad the design world's bought into it too.

Photos from Anthropologie, House and Home, Style at Home, Serena and Lily, West Elm, Sanderson and Martha Stewart Omnimedia.