Pod Art

I've been dying to show you what my mother-in-law has been up to in her studio as of late.  There have been a few sneak peeks both here and here, but now I can actually bring you the 'big reveal'.  Natalia's love of nature's bounty and passion for earthy adornments are artfully joined in one-of-a-kind wall hanging compositions. By combining seed pods, feathers, semi-precious stones and other natural foraged elements she creates unique representations of what she likes to call "Pod Art".  Take a look:

I love the way she mixes textures and colors and brings glamour to her pieces by using glass, semi-precious stones and metals. If you're interested in commissioning one of her original wall hangings, please email debra@cocoonhome.com for details.

Life Lately

The past few weeks have been teeming with inspirations for new projects, new and old culinary delights, favorite spots, bold new bridges and art in many forms (including our daughter's developing sense of style).

What's been filling up your weeks lately?

Botanical Inspiration: Signs Of Autumn

Walking around the neighborhood this past weekend, I came across some turkey feathers (which I foraged, of course) and some Pyracantha shrubs (that I obviously 'pruned').  Once home, I placed them together in a vase with some late blooming roses.  The pale pink petals along with the rusty tones of the berries brought the new season indoors.  Take a look:

Are you noticing the signs of autumn where you live?

Kitchen Inspirations: A 3rd Option And YOUR Favorite is?

Here's one last 'look' for our upcoming kitchen renovation and I really would like to know which one YOU favor because I am strangely undecided.   The first look was inspired by the wallpaper.  I love its bold pattern and color combo.  It's fun and it's modern.

The second combines texture and sheen which are both sophisticated and elegant.  This look would contrast the redwood panels that line the interior walls of our house very nicely.

The third 'look' is earthy and warm and honors the mid-century design of our home the best.  The blues and greens in the wallpaper coordinate well with the green tones of our concrete floors and blend seamlessly with the redwood walls as well.

So do we go bold, elegant or earthy?!?

Which is YOUR favorite look and why?  Help me out.

I just made our once private Kitchen Reno Pinboard public.  Take a look at it here.

'Til Monday: 5 Friday Favorites

Images: 1./2./3./4./5.