Botanical Inspiration: A Foliage Arrangement

When asked to donate a few botanical arrangements for a fundraiser benefitting our children’s elementary school, I knew foliage would play a predominant role in their composition.   I wanted them to feel very lush, textural and cascading.  With 6 different types of leaves and a vine, these came together:  somewhat feral, but, nevertheless, beautiful arrangements.  I do love a pretty flower, but there's something about combining different shades, shapes and textures of leaves that I find very appealing. A blooming passion vine was included for its interesting tendrils and to add another color to the mix.  Take a look:

Favorite "of the moment" foliage:   Gleichenia dicarpa, Sea Star Fern,

Fund Raising Design: Lafayette Juniors' 16th Annual Kitchen Tour

Next Saturday, May the 16th, Lafayette Juniors will be hosting its 16th annual Kitchen Tour from 10am to 3pm.  Ours will be one of the six featured. This event provides a great opportunity to acquire design inspirations and also to give back to our community.  The ticket proceeds benefit local organizations that provide exceptional support for families, children and seniors in the Contra Costa and East Bay communities.  We're honored to be part of the Lafayette Juniors largest and most successful fundraising event.  For more information on the tour and ticket sales click here. 

In the mean time, here's a sneak peek at 3 of the chosen kitchens.  

What To Wear: Denim On Denim

A few months ago, I created a shared Pinterest Board entitled:  "What To Wear" as a place for fellow pinners to post their favorite seasonal fashions.  One of my favorite contributors is Sade at Stitch and Made. I've known Sade for a long time and have always admired his individual style.  His work in the garment industry and ownership of a trendy clothing shop, always kept Sade on the forefront of fashionable dressing. By combining classic elements with seasonal pieces he always looks unique, yet never contrived.  Lately, he's been adding a lot of 'denim on denim' images on the Pinterest board and they really caught my eye.  His pins showcase the 'of the moment' garment in an age appropriate manner that doesn't feel overly trendy or intentional. I really think I can pull a few of these off. Take a look at some of his favorite picks, and below, some of my very own (which I hope to see in my closet soon).  

Love me some good old American denim!  

Blue abstract dress,  Loup Brigitte Jumpsuit, Long skirt with buttons, Sabine Dress 

A Nature Foraged Centerpiece For Food52 & Squarespace

When culinary blog Food52 invited Cocoon to create a unique centerpiece for a feature collaboration with Squarespace , I jumped at the opportunity. Having recently updated Cocoon's website on Squarespace (designed by Dabito) I knew it would be a great way to show how happy I am with the new platform. It's been easy to learn and is a pleasure to play with both with imagery and text. Be sure to check out Cocoon's full feature at Food25 and enjoy the special Square Space offer. 

The Way We Live: A Textile Designer's Home Part 2

As promised, I'm sharing part two of textile designer Jennifer Sampou's home.  After turning my lens on her living room, dining area and entry I thought I couldn't be more wowed, and then I stepped into her master bedroom suite.  Again, as she does throughout her home, Jennifer combines her work with other textiles to create a canvas of color, texture and pattern.  The space is cozy, elegant and eclectic. As I said before:  I could chill in it for days...

Take a look for yourself:

Jennifer, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to feature your home on Cocoon Home Blog.