Divine Details

On a recent trip to St. Augustine, Florida, I discovered one of the most impressive examples of Spanish Renaissance Revival Architecture. It was once the former Ponce De Leon Hotel and now occupied by Flager College. Built by architects, John Carere and Thomas Hasting in 1885 for Henry Flager, the hotel's exquisite detailing strongly influenced the architecture of Southern Florida for the next century. Louis C. Tiffany designed the interior of the hotel which is equally as impressive as the exterior. If you are ever in St. Augustine, this US National Historic Landmark is well worth checking out.

Snap, crackle, pop, party!

Check out these patriotic party ideas from the queen of party planning, Martha Stewart. The hanging stars are made from fabric, paper and fishing line. The red bucket cooler is decorated with white stars made from adhesive shelving paper. Just add a few snap, crackle and pop fireworks and your 4th of July party is complete.

Something old, new, borrowed and blue!

"Something old" is this great auction find. I do not know the exact age but I would guess from its detailing, this table is from the Victorian era. "Something new" is the metal filigree hardware knobs from Anthropologie. "Something borrowed" would be my husband's saw because these old pieces often need a drawer adjustment. And, of course, "something blue" would be the lovely light shade of icy blue paint!

Color is a girl's best friend.

Did you know that everyone has their own personal color that complements their characteristics and helps navigate them through life? According to Michelle Berhardt (a renowned intuitive and astrologer who wrote Colorstrology), focusing on your corresponding color that matches your sun sign on the day you were born offers insight into your true personality and nature. Check out her fun and informative site: http://www.colorstrology.com You can also send out birthday color e-cards!

Move over Ken, Jon is in the house!

In honor of Barbie's 5oth birthday, Jonathan Adler has designed the interior of this fun and fabulous real Malibu home. Overlooking the Pacific, this house was chosen because of the perfect glamorous setting. Alder has added the ultimate accessories fit for Barbie: an original Warhol portrait of Barbie, a chandelier made from 30 blond wigs, a kitchen stocked with cupcake-making ingredients and a pink Volkswagen Beetle parked in the garage. A well done job for the perfect fantasy client- happy, fun and loving life!

Living in a material world.

In my next lifetime, I would like to come back as a textile designer. A particular fabric that I am in love with right now is Kelly Wearstler's Imperial Trellis (Schumacher). The trellis pattern has made a huge comeback fueled by today's version of Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency style trends. Here are some of my favorites examples of Imperial Trellis. (bed frame, Plantation LA; chair, Stylecourt; lamp, The Brushed Bureau)

Pure Genius of Pure Design.

Meet Samantha Pynn of HGTV's Pure Design. She is a brilliant eco-friendly designer who shows her audience how to go green on a budget without sacrificing style. Her show, Pure Design, is packed with great ideas and takeaway tips. It airs on HGTV every Thursday night at 8:30e/ 7:30c.