Italy: Balconies, Terraces and Entryways.

Nearly a week has gone by since our return from Italy, and I'm convinced I left a bit of my heart and soul back there.  Not only are the historical landmarks magnificent, but the modern day living  scenes around them are equally striking.  Some of my favorite sights were the balconies, entries and doors that adorned practically each city and town we visited.  Whether in an urban area, or remote rural one, botanicals seemed to play a major role in defining how an outdoor space evolves with time.   Here are some of favorite images of grand entries, lush balconies and serene, inviting terraces.  

Italy, I cannot wait to return, again and again.  Ciao!!

Botanical Inspiration: Orchid Cactus

This week, I'm sharing with you a new favorite:  the orchid cactus.  I bought this lovely botanical a few weeks ago and ever since then, it has proven to be the perfect plant for this brightly lit room.  Its flattened, scallop-edged leaves offer interesting shapes as they gently cascade over the pot making them great for hanging planters as well.  Being part of the cacti family, watering requirements are less then for your usual orchid variety, but they do like a soil mixture that drains well but retains a bit of moisture.  Your standard potting mix would work great.  With bright indirect light, the flowers will bloom off the edges of the leaves creating a pop of color in the room.  

Do you have a favorite botanical?  If so, do share.

Summer Kick Off: Big Sur

For the past 4 years, we've taken off for Big Sur the day after the children's school year ends to mark the start of their summer vacation!   For 3 nights we camp along the Big Sur River, where the kids catch crawfish while mom and dad chill with a book.  The water, although a bit cold, is quite refreshing whether one is tubing it or not.  Camping really brings out the "kid factor" in our children.  They become even more free spirited, open to meeting new people and simply content to hang around the fire.  This year we invited family and a dear friend making this annual trip more special than usual.  I'm so grateful to be living near such a beautiful place where mountains, rivers and ocean converge.  

I hope everyone has a wonderful summer filled with lots of family, friends and new experiences. Take a look at some of my favorite images from the weekend:

Mood Board: Big Sur Green

The Cass Clutch in Big Sur Green conjures up images of the Northern California coast.  Its cypress and bay laurel trees weathering crisp ocean breezes were the inspiration for the beautiful shade of green.  Whether you're working poolside, toes deep in sand or out and about in a quaint little town, the Cass Clutch is destined to be your "go to" handbag.  

1.  Roberto Del Carlo Sangay Sandel

2. A Pretty Place To Be

3. Hui Hui Scark

4. Verde Suit

5.  The Cass Clutch, Big Sur Green.

Decorating Details: San Fransicso's Decorator Showcase House

For the past 38 years,  the San Francisco Decorators Showcase has provided a canvas for designers throughout California to strut their individual styles.  Each room in the house takes on a different look and feel, and all become equally impressive settings regardless of one's personal aesthetic.

 This year, painted ceilings, layered textiles, bold patterns and brass accents seemed to take center stage throughout the Villa de Martini.    Here are a few of my favorite decorating details:

Evars + Anderson Interior Design

Ann Lowengart Interiors

Ian Stallings

Artistic Designs For Living

Stephan Jones Interiors

Martin Kobus