Before And After: Mid Century Bathroom Makeover (Part 1)

We recently finished renovating two of our mid-century home's bathrooms.  Since they are adjacent to one another, my first inclination was to combine them into one large space.  However, after living in the house for a few years, I realized how convenient it was to have both, especially since we are a family of 5.  Utilizing the original layout and cabinetry design, we were able to preserve most of their mid-century characteristics while updating the decor and making them more current and functional.

In choosing the finishes, I turned to the rest of the house for inspiration.  Drawing colors from the redwood, brick,  the concrete flooring and the brass fixtures throughout the house,  I choose to use soft whites, green tones and some pink hues.  I fell in love with the Fireclay tile pattern named Old Cairo a year ago, and immediately knew then that it was the one for this project.  After playing around with the color combinations in Fireclay's Color-It application, I settled on two:  Tusk and Peabody.  Tusk to brighten the space and Peabody to coordinate with the green tones of the concrete floors. 

Here's the 'before and after' of Part 1 that features the bathroom that my husband and I use.  It features a shower, a long vanity [and now] lots of great light.  Take a look:

Tile installer, Jai from Intelligent Tile, lining up the pattern on the walls and shower pan.  

Before the makeover,  this bathroom had large pink tiles, formica counters, inefficient faucets and terrible lighting.  We chose the same cabinet design because we liked its floating effect and deep drawer storage.  We replaced the outdated counter with a light colored Silestone speckled with brown tones to give it an earthy feel.

The original mirror was reused and the cabinets were painted white to make the space even brighter.  New sconces hung and agate drawer pulls installed. We even re-plated the 1950's chrome Thermador heaters and toilet paper holders in brass to match the new finishes and painted the original towel racks to match the cabinets.   Mid-century art and flea market finds accessorize the space balancing the old with the new. 

We couldn't be happier with the results!  I must add that none of this would have gone as smoothly if it weren't for the expertise of our contractors. They were efficient, organized and precise.  If you're interested in contacting them please let me and I will be glad to put you in touch with them.  Stay tune for Part 2 which will feature the second bathroom's 'before and after'.

Mood Board: Stinson Amber

 The Cass Clutch in Stinson Amber is inspired by the grasses and sandy shores of California's Stinson Beach and the classic suede bags from the seventies.  Here I paired it with a striped knit dress, tasseled earrings and some funky boots: the perfect ensemble for the modern bohemian. 

1.  Striped Dress.

2. The Cass Clutch

3. Takara Ornament Hoop Earrings

4. Macrame Wall Hanging

5.  The Willa Boot

Groove Salon and PodArt!

I'm super excited to announce that my mother in-law, Natalia, is exhibiting her PodArt at Groove Salon in San Francisco.  The salon features a different bay area artist every 3 months, thus offering its clientele and staff an interesting, rotating backdrop for their enjoyment.  Natalia's show runs until September 10th.

On August 26th there will be an artist's reception, where you can meet Natalia and learn more about her art.   Keep posted for event details.  In the meantime be sure to check out PodArt here.  Congratulations, Natalia, your work is beautiful! 

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.