The Way We Live: Details In Diamond Heights

Upon entering the space for the first time I was taken by the mood it induced.  Through carefully curated furniture pieces,  personal touches and the magnificent SF bay views (not always present as you may correctly assume) this Diamond Heights apartment is a prime example of how attention to detail makes all the difference.  Earthy tones, textured surfaces, ethnic touches and an eclectic furniture mix all contribute to this home's relaxing atmosphere.  Once in it, one feels super chilled, yet extremely inspired by the objects and view that surround one.

Many thanks to JB and DD for sharing your space with my readers and to your designer friend, Pasak Ongwattanagul, for helping to create it.    The great collection of furnishings and accessories prompted me to ask DD to reveal his favorite places to shop.  Take a look at that list below:

SF stores:

Inside Modern, Design Within Reach, Big Daddy's Antiques, Monument, Stuff SF, Zonal, Coup D'Etat, Underglass Framing

 Other sources:

Jayson Home & Garden, WA, Environment, Horchow, LoPort Arts

Life Lately

This post is a testament to how much goes on in our lives moment by moment.  With recent feelings of anxiety over what I haven’t yet accomplished, these photos attest that life lately has been filled with lots of the essentials:  family outings, friends' visits, old fashioned playtimes, new places, great drinks, productive projects, time alone with hubby and lots of milestones for our kids.

Balancing family, work and personal time can be challenging, but taking note of what happens along the way shouldn't be.  As in previous years when summer begins, I vow to slow down and smell the roses.  Will it really happen?  Stay tuned.

How do you find balance in your life?

The Winner(s) Of Michael Aram's Madhouse Collection Are:

The lucky winner of Michael Aram's Lemonwood tray giveaway is Nick.  Our runner-up, Jennifer E., won a sampling from the Black Orchid collection.  Congratulations to you both!  Please email your postal addresses to debra@cocoonhome.com, so we can send these your way for a summer of stylish entertaining.

Off The Counter: Fried Okra

Alex and I recently reconnected with a dear friend from Cape Cod who now lives in San Francisco.  Although we hadn't seen each in a few years, our reunion felt as though no time or distance had come between us.  We recently visited him and his partner's impeccably decorated place in Diamond Heights (can't wait to get my lens all over THAT space) and enjoyed a delicious home cooked dinner.  One of the dishes they prepared was fried okra.  Mind you, it wasn't your typically battered and fried okra, this dish was light, crisp and extremely tasty. Take a look at a modern take on a Southern favorite, with ingredients and instructions below:

Ingredients:

Okra (small pods are the most tender), coconut oil, sliced almonds, salt and pepper.

Instructions:

Cut the okra length wise.  Add about a tablespoon of coconut oil to a frying pan  Wait untl the oil is melted and very hot before you add the okra.  Toss until it's brown.  Remove from pan and add sliced almonds, salt and pepper.  Enjoy!

Many thanks to JB and DD for a delicious meal and a memorable evening!

Botanical Inspiration: Cocoon Home Trunk Show

Vertical gardens, tin planters, basket arrangements and assorted seed pods were all up for grabs at Cocoon Home's first botanical trunk show last week.  With live music, wine, cheese and a great group of people, the evening represented a great combination of art, business and pleasure.

Many thanks to everyone who attended and for the continued support and encouragement.   If you couldn't make it, remember that you can special order any botanical composition for your home or garden.

For more details, email  debra@cocoonhome.com