Archival Quality...

We recently went through our "archive" for a peek at things that have inspired us over the years. An archive can be the simplest stack of magazine tears showing rooms, colors or items that made you take a second look or an entire library of stimulating books and photos. Having these ideas at your finger tips can be an unexpected moment of clarity while working on any project in your home.

This unconventional mural was part of an advertisement from many years ago. We loved how a simple painting could become multi-dimensional with the addition of a textile bow. Taken one step further, the fabric statement piece can be made from a loved one's garment or household linen giving your child's room a significant homespun element. Be inspired by everything you see & everyone in your life!

Required Reading...

We are really enjoying paging our way through the adorable new book giggle Guide to Baby Gear by Ali Wing. Ali, who founded giggle (the national chain of healthy lifestyle baby boutiques), has provided cheerful information and descriptions of tools every new parent needs to become a fully equipped family on the go (aka no more purchasing items millions of moms buy and never use)! There are no product placements throughout the entire book and she even describes things we all need to know, but no one tells us! Helpful lists include: what to pack in your diaper bag, the best advances in technology for new parents and no-fuss tips for traveling with baby. Happy reading!

Lets go fly a kite...

Have a cramped room or bathroom that can't handle much decor on the walls but needs a fun focal point for your kids to enjoy? For just about $10 you can float this quirky kite by famous lifestyle product designer, Cath Kidston from the ceiling using fishing line & a few small nails (get creative with the ribbon tail!). Coordinate your wallcolor by pulling a shade from the charming english country print and combine with a textured lace shower curtain to create a proper dressing room for a little dame.

By the yard...

Re-vamping a "gently used" nursery or creating a new nursery using budget materials? Put some luxurious touches into the room by incorporating unique textiles from the collection of "fabrics by the yard" offered by the fabulous design duo Serena and Lily. A couple yards can go a long way as pillow fronts, to recover a cute ottoman or create a one of a kind valance over a window. The fabrics are sold in 1 yard increments (minimum of 2 yards) and for $2 you can request a 4"x4" swatch - which you will need to narrow down your selections from this fanciful collection. Each pattern coordinates back to their sumptuous selection of bedding, paints and accessories. Happy re-covering!

Fancy Fixture...

Top off a room fit for a princess with an architectural feature commonly found in palaces & castles all over the world. Give an inexpensive flea market chandelier or other hanging light fixture the royal treatment with this custom hand painted ceiling medallion by Purple Cactus Studios which we found on Ladybugs and Lilypads. An elegant finishing touch full of whimsy and character.

Great Gingham...

Gingham is back! This relaxed & retro pattern has been popping up recently in men's & women's designer collections; re-emerging with a trendy flair! Now an updated, large scale version of this dapper design is available as part of a new bedding introduction by Pottery Barn Kids. Dress it up as preppy or hip, but always perfect for a little gentleman.

Let there be Light...

Overhead lighting in nurseries can be harsh compared to the soft and sweet decor. Wall sconces are a much better fit for their ability to diffuse much gentler light. These new giraffe ceramic sconces by Jonathan Adler would make adorable statement pieces flanking a changing table or crib. They are hard wired and come in Right & Left facing models. We love!