Posts from March 2008

Today I'm finding inspiration in these spaces by Palmer Weiss, one of this year's domino ten.

I especially like the graphic impact of the contrast-trimmed foyer table skirt in the photo below. Even for a non-sewer, this might be a fairly simple project with some clever draping, pins, and some fabric book cloth tape for the trim - or any ribbon or trim for that matter (the book cloth tape has adhesive already on the back, though, so it might save a step).

Below, a great example of mad pattern in a small space looking fabulous - here, the walls covered in Osborne & Little's Asuka paper.

Images from Palmer Weiss Interiors.

Finding new book structures is always inspiring to me... I love these sculptures - folded from re-purposed paperbacks - that turn the typical book-on-a-shelf on its head. Not only do these sculptures look like beautiful, individual pieces, but the product shots themselves are works of art.

For a closer look at these pieces, for more information & to purchase, visit Paperfaerie's Etsy shop.

images c/o Paperfaerie.

One of my favorite stores, Anthropologie, isn't my favorite simply because of the amazing clothes they carry (in fact, I've only splurged on maybe 3 pieces from there in my entire life) - it's really the whole package: the clothes, the way they design & merchandise their stores... and their stunningly unique & ever-changing graphic design.

The current section pages of Anthro's website are just gorgeous... I love the layering of graphic patterns with beautiful product photography. And don't get me started on the type design. The outlined white text reversed out of colorful backgrounds is clean & striking...

For more visual inspiration, be sure to get your hands on the most recent catalog for Anthropologie Home... all of the photographs feature an amazing "sewn" set, which is a great backdrop to their bold, patterned furnishings.

images c/o Anthropologie.

Before we all start our weekend, I thought I'd show off a project that I've been looking forward to working on for months... a wedding album for Amie & Denny, who are getting married this summer.

They wanted something that conveyed a bit of their earthy, rustic personalities and - if possible - took on a bit of a "Phish" look (that's right, the band). The title artwork for their names was inspired by this album cover - and the woodgrain cover was just perfect: sophisticated yet earthy...

I hope they like it!

I'll post images of the finished product next week - HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND, EVERYONE!

I'm not exactly sure where I first read about Maria Vettese (of Port2Port Press) & illustrator, Lena Corwin's collaborative project, Lines & Shapes: a continuing series of books; each issue containing work from 6 different artists who, individually, interpret a visual idea.

I've seen a few posts about the first volume (not to mention the fact that I've visited the Lines & Shapes multiple times) and I desperately want to get an entire subscription... but, for now, I've restrained myself and just bought Volume One...

The 68-page, 6x8" Volume One has the visual theme of CIRCLE... "any circular or ringlike object, formation, or arrangement; a series ending where it began," a theme interpreted by Maria & Lena, as well as 4 other artists/designers:

• photographer, Jennifer Causey
• multi-media artist, Karen Gelardi
• seamstress, printmaker & clothing designer, Caitlin Mociun and
• graphic artist, Christopher David Ryan, who also designed the L&S logo (top image)

I can't wait to get my hands on Volume One... well, except for the fact that I'm sure it'll make me need to get a subscription!

images c/o L&S.

We tried out a new product at the One of a Kind Show & Sale this past December (2007)... magnets! They sold out in the first couple of days & we ended up wishing that we'd made twice as many...

A few weeks ago, we finally got around to making another batch & they're now available in the Etsy shop!

Magnet Set No. 1 - Black and Gold, $4.00 for 3/pk, available at OB's Etsy shop.

*BUY 3 SETS & WE'LL SEND YOU A PACK OF B&W BUTTONS FREE!

Atelier Leela Re contacted me about its line of handmade luxury goods for the home, and I was impressed by the attention to detail and thoughtful creative process.

The company employs a group of fine artisans to collaboratively produce the pillows, throws and silk accessories; each item may take several days to create. It is this painstaking craft that is Atelier Leela Re's signature - the company seeks to "produce beautiful textile products with a process that empowers the individual artisan and preserves centuries-old traditions of hand weaving and hand embroidery."

I think this silk scarf is simply gorgeous - so delicate and airy, it looks like a painting.

Image from Atelier Leela Re.

As I was perusing design*sponge the other night, I was so pleased to come across some images of a home that I was already familiar with: the home of Erin Loechner from Design for Mankind! On Monday, Erin's lovely rooms were featured in a d*s Sneak Peek... Here are some great shots from DFM's Flickr home. set:

Just so you know, that framed print in the 2nd image is from MidCenturyJo's Etsy shop (aka Jo Walker from desire to inspire)!

Thanks to Grace & Erin both, for the peek into some amazing rooms!!!

images c/o DFM

I just checked in with one of my favorite design firms, Pappas Miron, and found some new projects in its portfolio. As always, the designers create beautiful spaces incorporating pattern, luxe texture, small shots of bold color and one-of-a-kind vintage pieces. (Love that yellow shaded candelabra table/lamp at the top of the post - simultaneously quirky and elegant!)

The first three images are from a condominium model at 813 Park, a three-unit building on Park Avenue. The living spaces decorated by Pappas Miron were completed in only three weeks!

I particularly appreciate how "sleek and modern" is effectively juxtaposed with "homey and traditional" in all of these spaces.

See and read about some of my other favorite Pappas Miron interiors here or browse through the online portfolio for more inspiration.

Images from Pappas Miron Interiors.

Today is my dad's 60th birthday and I can't think of a single person more deserving of a SCOOP tribute...

My dad is the greatest: he has been my constant supporter, especially with my business. He was the person who encouraged me to take a chance and start OrangeBeautiful 3 1/2 years ago.

It's not surprising, though... Dad's always been there for me, and I feel extremely lucky to have such an amazing father. Here's just a few images for you to get a little bit of an idea of what I'm talking about:

Here he is, nearly 30 years ago, already looking pretty happy to be my Dad... or maybe he's just marveling at those huge cheeks of mine ;)

That's my brother, Bret, on Dad's shoulders and me in the blanket... Dad's multi-tasking skills at work.

Okay, so this is probably one of the weirdest photos I have... don't get too freaked out: it's just a BB gun - and we're shooting at soup cans in our backyard.

Dad and I were always really good at taking naps... and we still are.

So, Dad owns a '73 Corvette Stingray, which always seemed really normal when I was growing up... it was only when I got older that I realized how "cool" he was in the eyes of my friends (and my friends' dads) - this photo is from a junior high dance my dad drove me to in the Vette. (The best part was that the car matched my dress!)

My brother, Bret, Dad and me... all dressed up - they both look pretty sharp in their tuxes!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD! I LOVE YOU!

I used to be really big on journaling, but more & more, I find that I'm usually a bit too OCD (not to mention too busy & too tired) to keep it up... by that I mean that I get tied up on whether or not my handwriting is neat enough (I'm serious), or if what I'm writing down "makes sense"... I'm hoping the key will be making the right journal that will inspire me to start writing more.

Maybe I'll make another one of these and keep it for myself!

image c/o OB.

Butterfly Necklaces (in red & orange) $65.00 each, by IMOOI.

There's not been nearly enough here on the SCOOP about my favorite jewelry brand, IMOOI - so, I thought I'd show off some of their newest designs, which feature a bit of Spring that you can decorate yourself with all year long...

Waterlily Necklaces (shown here in yellow & blue) and Dragonfly Necklaces (in gray, orange & blue); $65.00 each, by IMOOI.

Berry Necklaces (in black, red & green) $65.00 each, by IMOOI.

At this point, I only own 5 IMOOI pieces (poor me ;) ...and I'm thinking maybe one of these beautiful pendants can be #6... Whatdya think?

images c/o IMOOI.

I love this great off-kilter, stackable bookcase by Swedish design firm, Smånsk. How great for loading up with all my heavy design books and years of ReadyMade & HOW magazine subscriptions!

Too bad the shelf is only a prototype (for now)... hopefully, it will be put into production soon!

via 2modern (and dezeen)... photo by Carl Kleiner.

On the heels of Emily's tile post, this month's domino had a good feature on how to create graphic effects with flooring - using tile, paint and linoleum laid in patterns. It got me thinking about how to use a floor to make a grand gesture, a concept I think the image above beautifully demonstrates.

This kitchen belongs to and was designed by Nora Fleming. The dishware artist, blogger and mom wrote me that refinishing her kitchen floor was not in the budget, so her solution was to strategically paint wide stripes to cover up any damaged areas. I think the natural wood peeking through the white stripes provides great contrast and texture in the all-white kitchen. And it's a fabulous example of making the most of what you've got.

Thanks for sharing your home, Nora!

Image courtesy of Nora Fleming.

Given some of the new products that OrangeBeautiful will be launching at NSS this May, I've been somewhat obsessed with patterns - specifically, Black & White patterns...

When I received an email from Steve at AnchorBayTile.com about their newest line of decorative ceramic tiles, called Elements, I was immediately drawn to the bold B&W designs:

from top to bottom: Elements Maricopa border tile (Marine on White) $12.50/per 2.75 x 5.75" tile... and Elements Tubac (Marine on White) Elements Sedona (Marine on White) and Elements Clifton (White on Marine), all $20.00/per 5.75"sq. tile.

Thanks for the info, Steve!... For more information on these and other AnchorBayTile.com products, go here.

RELAX. Everyone take it easy this weekend:

• Spend some time with your loved ones.
• Eat a huge breakfast.
• Cuddle up in a blanket and watch one of your favorite movies...

• and take at least 3 naps.

Pretty good advice coming from a kitten, if you ask me.

My dear friends gave me this gorgeous pitcher/vase by Rikke Jacobsen, a Danish artist who produces Bone China vessels and serving ware. She works primarily in white and then adds decorative flourishes to some of her limited editions in metallics and black.

I love the delicate effect of the gold lace winding around the beautiful form of the pitcher/vase. Other adornments are similarly suited to the pieces' shapes, including these dotted and abstract-lined bowls, above.

P.S.: My Rikke piece came beautifully packaged from Clio, one of my favorite shops!

Top image by me. Bottom image from Rikke Jacobsen.

It's been a long week... I'm at about 80% after having been sick for the first four days of the week, and - more than anything - I'm just really anxious to get back on track with some amazing projects that are on my plate: some that I've been working on for a while; others that are brand-new and just in the beginning stages.

More than likely I will be putting in some serious studio hours this weekend to get caught up, but first, I thought I'd share a few things that are helping to get me through to the official end of the work week:

- This Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining print (top image), from the Keep Calm Gallery, is perfect for those frustrating days (or weeks) when everything seems a bit too much to handle...

- These great rainbow stairs (above) by artist Jim Lambie via Happy Cavalier...

- OrangeBeautiful's new (but empty) online shop at Supermarket... it may be a couple of weeks before we get this new shop up & running, but we'll be sure to keep you posted. I'm excited just thinking about it...

- the 22,000+ custom-converted envelopes that arrived in our studio yesterday... don't worry, they're not for a mailing - but they are for our new B&W line of greeting cards (which you got a little sneak peek of a few weeks back ;)

- and last, but certainly not least, I want to say thank you to B (that's her on the right) who has kept me positive & productive all week (and for the last 6 months)... you're the BEST.

I hope everyone has a restful weekend (and thanks to everyone for the sweet birthday wishes this week!)... and we'll be back on Monday rested & ready for more!

I first heard of the shop Cambria's Creations when its 12-year old proprietor, Cambria, left a comment here on the SCOOP. I checked out her Etsy site and I'm so impressed by the sophistication of this young entrepreneur. Her beaded jewelry is created in beautiful colorways, and each piece is showcased in a series of well-styled photographs. (I particularly liked the sheet music used as a backdrop for the aqua necklace, above.) Though a preteen, Cambria clearly understands the importance of quality and visual merchandising, and is surely becoming a successful businesswoman.

Image from Cambria's Creations.

I've been a bit under the weather since the weekend (and it sounds like Laura and her family could use a little boost, as well ;) - I thought this lovely Inspiration Poster from Design for Mankind's Etsy shop would be a nice pick-me-up... for everyone!

The Strawberry print is shown above, but the design also comes in Carnation, Grape, Honeydew, Sky, Salmon & Cantaloupe, too! Only $14.99 +plus shipping for the 11x17 (unframed) screenprint.

Also, be sure to check out DFM's 2nd issue of its online zine, which is where the Inspiration design made its debut!

image c/o DFM.

My husband's grandmother, Catherine Conaboy Kelty, passed away this weekend, so we spent the past few days celebrating her life and gathering with her family and friends. She was an extraordinary woman and we are especially pleased to have named our daughter after her.

Catherine's outward style - graceful, classic, put-together - was a reflection of who she was on the inside, and deserves to be shared. These photos were among my favorites that I think capture her approachable elegance, and best describe how I think of her: a lady, in every sense of the word.

Clockwise from top left:

I love the pattern on the skirt in this photo, as well as the beaded necklace and bracelet, showcased against a simple black top.

How beautiful is this striped summer dress! I could see this in see Anthropologie today.

The striped T-shirt and red nails are a classic. This is Catherine with her future husband, Thomas, who looks like Paul Newman here.

In case you can't see the text, that's Catherine reading an issue of Cosmopolitan circa 1942! How glamorous.

The accessories with this red-and-black ensemble are so perfect: the white gloves, pearl earrings, hat, red handbag and fresh flower corsage emphasize the importance of the day - my mother-in-law Kate's first Communion.

Hard to believe, but the SCOOP is officially one year old today. And what a delightful, surprising, and enlightening year it has been! When Emily and I began blogging, we were mostly "talking" to each other and would have never guessed that so many wonderful people would visit these conversations, though we looked forward to meeting other designers, bloggers and design enthusiasts through this venture.

It has been such fun and so I raise a can to Emily and to all of you! Happy Anniversary!

Sofia Mini Blanc de Blancs image from Rosso Bianco.

On this date, one year ago, Laura & I wrote our first posts here on the SCOOP... it's amazing, isn't it? And to think that some of you have been reading since the very beginning! (Thank you SO much!)

Well, a lot has happened over the course of the past year. Not only have L & I met some amazing new people through this blog (both online and face-to-face), but we've both gone through some immense changes: I've been growing my company here and there and L's certainly grown her family in quite a beautiful way!...

All in all, I think Laura and I would both agree that even though 2007 was great, the rest 2008 will bring even more excitement for the both of us... and we wish the same for all of you!

oh, man... what a lovely surprise in our mail the other day :: a thank you note & a little bundle of these Mix Tape Tags from Danyelle at Dandee Designs!

She bought one of our screen-printed journals and a set of gift tags as a gift for a (lucky) friend of hers ;)

Well, Danyelle :: you're oh-so welcome and thank you!

image c/o Dandee Designs.

I love the quiet simplicity of Page's letterpress cards (see another favorite here)...

Pisces notecard image from Page.

Marrakesh Fleece Blazer in Olive, $98.00 available at Free People.

I absolutely love the brand Free People... if you didn't already know, FP is a sub-brand (along with Anthropologie) underneath the bigger umbrella of Urban Outfitters - so, it's really a trifecta of favorites for me.

I've got some serious jacket-envy right now (read :: always), and I'm trying to have some restraint with new (personal) purchases at the moment, so... here's my wishlist of Free People jackets...

This fleece blazer (which comes in olive, black and orange) is definitely my top pick... it's just adorable - and the fact that it's a softer, fleece material (as opposed to acrylic or polyester), is really appealing for both cooler & warmer temperatures...

Sailing Stripes Jacket in Ivory, $69.95 (sale) available at Free People.

I'm not sure what it is about the Sailing Stripes Jacket... probably a combination of the double-breasted buttons & the red stripe detail. Whatever it is, I'd love to have this hanging in my closet, too.

Moto Longsleeve Bomber Jacket in Orange, $118.95 available at Free People.

And I know exactly what it is that I love about the Moto Bomber Jacket in this great deep orange color... well, of course the color - but mostly, the unfinished/frayed details, the zipper sleeves & the high-neck, ribbed collar.

My birthday is a long way away and I'm certainly not in need of another jacket, so, for now, I guess I'll just keep wishing...

images c/o Free People.

A few years back, I came across this weird plastic material, sold in sheets, at Paper Source... since buying several sheets of the stuff here & there over the years, it's become increasingly harder to find - either because of the fact that it's produced in Italy, or maybe it's just not made anymore.

Either way, it's a great material for book covers, because 1) it's impermeable to water, 2) wears really well over time (good for stuffing into bags & carrying around with you at all times)... and 3) it's extremely flexible.

A limited edition of 4.25 x 5.5" pocket journals (with rubber band closure) is currently available on OrangeBeautiful's Etsy Shop!

Annsley McAleer, named one of domino's top 10 up and coming designers, has a clean, colorful style that is really appealing to me as inspiration for my own home.

While I also appreciate theatrical design, I love the accessibility and freshness of Annsley's rooms. How pretty is the subtle texture of the Elson & Company patterned rug shown in the image at the top of the post? The chairs are so fun - a "before and after" project, they were made over with paint and new fabric. I actually have similar-looking window panels that are sitting in a closet - now I'm thinking of covering this chair with them. I just wish I had one to match!

Pretty blue accents liven up this quiet bedroom, above. I never think to do a lampshade in anything other than white tones or black, but the bright blue works so well here atop the antique-looking table.

Above, the white lamp, Emeco-style chair and file cabinet (and of course that fab rug) give this inspirational workspace a dose of serenity.

The part of me that loves the coziness of booths at restaurants has always craved banquette-style seating in an eat-in kitchen. Here, I also appreciate the white chair paired with the round black table, and the pretty banquette fabric (probably "Madison" by Lulu DK, but I would go budget with food in close proximity!).

Images from domino.

Spree in Black, $80.00 by Nixon.

I've posted about Nixon before, and I still love checking in on their products every once in a while to find something new to drool over.

Here are just a few of my new favs from their selection of men's and women's watches:

the Rotolog in Blue/Yellow (left), $300.00 and the Murf in Blue/Yellow (right), $350.00 - both by Nixon.

the Murf in Black, $350.00 - by Nixon.

Some of Nixon's new collections have a bit of an 80's flare, which I love: the bold colors & angular graphics work great on these square-faced styles.

the Vega in Dark Wood, $100.00 by Nixon.

the Vega SS in Mirror, $100.00 by Nixon.

The Vega (a favorite of mine) now comes in several more solid colors, as well as wood grain (!) and stainless steel (!!) -

images c/o Nixon.

Hurley Gwen Crop Jacket, $32.99 (sale) in Blue - available at SWELL.

Over the weekend, I somehow happened upon the online store SWELL - and this jacket by Hurley... The cut & color are great - and normally, I'm not a huge fan of the 3/4 sleeves, but I think this'll be a great jacket for Spring!

It's taken me an inexcusable amount of time to complete my first project from Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing (which I first posted about nearly a year ago!)

So, I've started taking yoga again (which I'm loving) so, what better project than a bag for my yoga mat?!

I had about 5 yards of polka dot fabric that I bought years ago at IKEA and a lovely set of turquoise shoelaces (for the drawstring) that matched perfectly.

It actually only took me a few hours to complete the whole thing start to finish... I definitely didn't do the pocket according to the instructions, but it still looks great and is entirely functional. At the end of this first project, I definitely feel confident that I can easily make more items from this same book - so, keep checking back for posts on the outcomes of those!

images c/o Jw.

Ever since I cut my hair and then cut it again, I've been thinking about how we'd need to update my silhouette on the SCOOP's about page (click that button in the upper right corner)... and, over the weekend, L put together a new "faux-hawked" version for us! I think it looks great!

Thanks, L!

I just ordered this babydoll tunic. I love the satin panels outlined in black; reminds me of my pointe shoes and leotards from days of old. (I also appreciate how this top looks expensive, but it's not.)

Image from Forever 21.

I thought this was a fun way of splicing together a few shots that B took of our newly posted handmade albums in the Etsy shop...

if you'd like a better understanding of the whole of these parts, click here.

The term "eye candy" gets tossed around a lot, but in terms of interiors, I think that perfectly describes these rooms designed by Angie Hranowsky. I find Angie's signature touches irresistable: exhuberant color palettes, vintage objects, and graphic patterns add up to incredibly stylish and personal spaces.

I've posted Angie's work before, and I've been waiting patiently to view her online portfolio, checking every month or so. I nearly leapt for joy when I discovered her great new website, a showcase of her interior and graphic design talents.

Just as with candy, it's hard to stop feasting once you've started...which is why I'm posting all 10 of my favorite shots for your visual enjoyment!

Angie is not afraid to make bold moves, employing contrasting color and line for maximum impact...

Her graphic design background imbues these interiors with great energy, moving the eye around objects that beg to be enjoyed - from the chinoiserie-style "princess" lamp to the intricate cane texture of a chair back.

I particularly love the perfectly composed vignettes, such as the simple plates-and-chairs arrangement below.

Images from Angie Hranowsky.

Love these string & button envelopes from Tokyo-based stationer, POSTALCO (via Oh Joy!) Check out more of their product line here:

I really enjoyed this little blurb about paper on POSTALCO's history page:

The adjustability of a piece of paper is remarkable. It is an object, a surface, and a tool. Notes are sometimes taped to a wall, or folded and then sent by mail. The exchange of messages written on paper is universal. We are inspired by the warmth of paper, but its immediacy which makes it essential.

...and I think Jw might be interested in this.

Three Dot Ladder Earrings - Metropolitan, $56.00 from TQB Designs.

A few days ago, (amongst the hand-picked items on the Etsy homepage), I stumbled upon the work of jewelry designer, Lisa Gastelum, and her Etsy shop TQB Designs - and, well, I'm in awe and in love...

Petal Dot Oval Earrings - Cilantro, $42.00 from TQB Designs.

I honestly did not think that seed beads could look this incredibly beautiful & meticulous. The little clusters of beads along with the creative metalwork & great color combinations make for some truly unique pieces.

Lucky Shoes Earrings - Sweet Pea, $38.00 from TQB Designs.

Caged Necklace - Botanical, $80.00 from TQB Designs.

For more on Lisa's process & inspirations, be sure to check out TQB's blog, right here!

images c/o TQB Designs.

This past weekend, Jw and I were walking around on Armitage in Lincoln Park (where our favorite bagel shop, Chicago Bagel Authority is located) and we, of course, stopped in at Art Effect...

I was immediately drawn to these Puddle Jumper bags by Lug, available in several sizes & a variety of beautiful, saturated colors.

Surprise, surprise, I would actually pick the teal (top pic) over the orange...

images c/o Lug Travel.

Obama 2008 design, by Obey the Pure Breed!: available in magnets, postcards, posters, t-shirts and more.

Today, I'm hoping for a huge turnout at the polls in Ohio, Texas, Vermont & Rhode Island... with the amount of delegates in play for this primary, we could have a Democratic Presidential nominee as of tomorrow morning.

I'll be keeping my fingers crossed...

This past Friday was a bit of a momentous day here at OrangeBeautiful, as we finally sent off the final artwork for our new line of patterned, all-occasion cards... there's still quite a lot of work left to be done (custom packaging, an entire other line of cards, catalogs, etc... the list goes on and on) -

Some of the patterns that you'll find on our card sets and NEW pocket journals will give you a sneak peek into our May release... we hope you like it!!!

Stay tuned for oh-so-much more!

(p.s. the Yellow Orbit ring I'm wearing in that first pic is by my most-favorite jewelry designer, IMOOI.)

Mimi Espadrille, by Michael Antonio, $39.00 available at dELiA*s.

I know, I know... I've lived in Chicago for going on eight years now, and I should really be "okay" with winter being so ridiculous and long. (Especially since the last 6 winters here haven't really been that harsh.) But it's March now, and I'm officially done.

Bella flat, by Roxy, $49.00 available at dELiA*s.

It will definitely be April before all the piles of snow even start to melt, but I will still happily drool over all of the new Spring shoes, clothes, accessories, etc. that are popping up all over...

Saffron Sandal, $39.00 available at dELiA*s.

I'm loving all of the yellow over at dELiA*s right now - especially, the shoes.

Eclipse sandals, by BC, $55.00 available at dELiA*s.

I love the way the heels look, but I would definitely end up with flats... probably these (above) sandals from BC.

images c/o dELiA*s