What I’ve Learned

I was so excited when Brooke Giannetti at Velvet and Linen asked me to participate in her “What I Have Learned” Series.

Brooke is one of my favorite designers and her blog is a must read. Filled with spectacular design, gorgeous photos and great tips. Brooke’s beautiful style is only eclipsed by her generous heart and warmth. She has been a great friend and inspiration to me.

Stop on over and read my guest post, but then stay a while longer – I know you will be as mesmerized with Brooke and Velvet and Linen as I am! Just click HERE.

Belgian Dream House

I adore the Belgian style and when I stumbled upon this home from Arcobaleno I knew I had to share it with you. Take a long look at the photo above. the antique doors open to the most stunning of rooms.

The fireplace is truly a work of art!

Here is a closer look. The shape is beautiful but also notice the fireback in the fireplace and the wide wood floors. They looked pickled or bleached. So pretty.

Above is a close up of the Swedish corner cabinet. But take a closer look at the plaster treatment on the walls – Decorating well is a layering process– starting with these incredible walls, adding the lovely antiques and accessories create a warmth and unparalleled patina.

Here is the view looking from the family room into the kitchen. Notice the stacks of books on the bench and the house model. Again little details that add to the beauty of this home. Also take a closer look at the kitchen. You can see the interesting cabinets which go directly to the ceiling. Also notice the stacks of bowls under the center island.

A close up of the cabinet drawers above the stove. Notice how the enamel plaques are aged.

Dishes and bowls are stacked on shelving- these mirror the bowls under the center island. I love the rusty scrolled brackets.

A view from the center island looking towards the eating area. The long wall of built in cabinetry is to die for. The crystal chandelier is perfect choice. With the large window I am sure it sparkles all day long.

A closer view of the dining area and chandelier. A stunning room. To see more gorgeous interiors and antiques visit Arcobaleno HERE

Wishing all the Mother’s a very relaxing and special Mother’s Day!

(All images Arcobaleno.  All content property of Willow Décor and not to be copied with out permission)

Beds Tucked Away & Splendid Willow

What’s your favorite antique? Several other fabulous bloggers and I were recently interviewed about our favorite antiques over at the wonderful blog, Splendid Willow. Monika and I are like family – we love the same style (though she is younger and much cooler than I am)!! Stop over and read thoughts from several top bloggers and check out Monika’s wonderful blog. You can read it HERE.

I am working on renovating my master bedroom. I have long been enamored with beds that are built in or tucked into wall cabinets. This image above from Tracery Interiors has been in my inspiration file for quite some time. I adore color and patina on the cabinetry. I also love the softness the upholstered headboard adds.

I saved this image from Pursley Architects several years ago. I have always admired the way the architect created a more cozy space in the bedroom by adding the free standing wall. The u-shaped wall creates a wonderful coziness to what could be a large impersonal space. The addition of upholstered walls, headboard and oval mirror really caught my eye. Lovely!

Here is a wonderful wood built in area by Windsor Smith. The cabinetry is built all around the room and creates the arched bed area. Look more closely and you see it is actually closets. In an old home like mine this is beautiful way to add more closet/storage space. The mirrored panels behind the bed also add the illusion of a larger room and create a spectacular reflection for the crystal sconces.

This bedroom from Skona Hem shows a less expensive way to get that built-in, tucked away feeling. Simple linen panels add a special ambiance to this gorgeous room. Also notice the spectacular mirror and Swedish fireplace. I adore this room.

What do you think readers, which is your favorite?

(All content copyrighted by Willow Decor and not be copied without written permission)

A Country Farmhouse

There is nothing more charming to me than a wonderful farmhouse. Old or new, I love the warmth and homey feeling!

I wanted to share this farmhouse from Rehkamp Larson Architects. When their clients purchased the property, the original farmhouse was in shambles. The owners envisioned a more modern, but classic styled foursquare farmhouse.

They wanted an expansive porch to wrap around the home to enjoy lovely views of the beautiful property.

Inside I fell in love with the old fashion styled farmhouse kitchen. Notice the large windows with mullions only on the top half. Also notice the huge wood center island. A bridge faucet and open shelving really helps capture the farmhouse style.

From this angle you can see the apron front sink. Another detail which really adds to the farmhouse feel are the exposed hinges on the inset cabinet doors, as well as the latches and bin pull hardware.

I adore this adjacent butler's pantry. Also notice the glass front cabinets and under cabinet shelf.

The bath is a wonderful reinterpretation of an old farmhouse bath. The slipper tub is sculptural and beautiful. The tile and high dressers also add a feeling of age and history.

Another favorite is the clapboard clad sunroom, outfitted with gas grill and hood. A great space for entertaining. Notice how the brick walls are complimented by the bright color palette. The colors really update and modernize the farmhouse feel.

The deep porch with beadboard ceiling creates a marvelous space for enjoying the vista. The very talented team at Rehkamp Larson Architects did an excellent job of creating a modern farmhouse for their client. To see more of their work click HERE.

(All photos Rehkamp Larson Architects- all content property of Willow Décor and not be copied with out permission)